Pro Field Report
Basic Information
Observation Details
Observation Date:
December 11, 2022Submitted:
December 11, 2022Observer:
SAC - Chris Lundy, Tanner HaskinsZone or Region:
Sawtooth and Western Smoky MtnsLocation:
Divide between Frenchmans & Salmon Headwaters (rec tour) (7300-8300', mostly N but some E & W)Signs of Unstable Snow
Recent Avalanches?
YesCracking?
None ExperiencedCollapsing?
WidespreadSnow Stability
Stability Rating:
PoorConfidence in Rating:
ModerateStability Trend:
WorseningBottom Line
This was a plan B tour after arriving at Frenchmans right as Galena Summit closed. Given the unfamiliar terrain, dangerous conditions, and unlikelihood of good skiing, we didn't go far. Limited obs, but we had a number of medium to large collapses. Fewer than recent tours but the slab is getting thicker. We observed moderate amounts of snow being moved on a wind-exposed mid elevation ridge.
Advanced Information
Weather Summary
Cloud Cover:
ObscuredWind:
Moderate , SENew/Recent Snowfall:
~40cm settled HST on 12/8 interfaceS-1 through most of the tour from 10 to 1:30. Mod and gusty winds along the exposed bump we topped out on.
Avalanche Observations
| # | Date | Location | Size | Type | Bed Sfc | Depth | Trigger | Comments | Photo |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Final pitch of "Humble Pie" as it drops down to the salmon HW. W 7800 |
D1.5 | N-Natural | Smallish slab in fairly sheltered, mid-elevation terrain | None |
We had poor light for observing avalanche activity.
Snowpack Observations
We dug one pit in a somewhat wind exposed location: 8150', N, 23*. HS 115. See photo. 11/27 was 75cm down and consisted of F+ FC. Slab up to 12/8 interface was 1F. 12/8 was visible as a thin stripe in the pit wall, but did not have any surface hoar visible to the naked eye. 40cm of 4F -> F HST on the 12/8 interface. We had a few ECTNs (barely) on the 12/8 interface. ECTP30 and ECTX (P with thumping) on 11/27.
Avalanche Problems
| Problem | Location | Distribution | Sensitivity | Size | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Persistent Slab
|
|
Layer Depth/Date: 75cm Weak Layer(s): Nov 27, 2022 (FC) Comments: Rose indicates observed terrain |