Sawtooth Avalanche Center

Public Field Report

Observation Details

Observation Date:
February 26, 2023
Submitted:
February 26, 2023
Zone or Region:
Galena Summit and Eastern Mtns
Activity:
Skiing/Snowboarding
Location:
Triumph

Signs of Unstable Snow

Did you see shooting cracks? 
Yes, Isolated
Did you experience collapsing or whumpfing? 
Yes, Isolated

Observations

5 whoompfs encountered on the tour. First 3 were on an exposed ridge around 8000' on the ascent. The 4th (and largest) occurred at the top of the ridge line (8680') near our transition point and the final (2nd largest) happened on the descent around 8300'. All areas were N/NE facing and displayed clear signs of wind effect. Wind slab formation evident at 8680' with a distinct change in snow density. Slope loading was 1-2 people to trigger. All occurring on slopes 30-35 degrees. Shooting cracks also observed in junction with the whoompfs at 8680' and 8300'.

Advanced Observations

Observed Avalanche Problem #1: 
Wind Slab
Comments: 
D1-2 potential. N/NE facing aspects on wind affected slopes. Reactive. All new snow from the 2/23 - 2/24 storm.