Professional Observation

Observation Details

Signs of Unstable Snow

Snow Stability

Bottom Line

I spent the past 4 days in the Western Wallowas around Flagstaff Butte teaching a Motorized Companion Rescue Course and Level 1. The biggest factor contributing to Wet Loose avalanche activity was the increase in temperature, and the snow level rising to around 6,500' on Saturday and Sunday. Saturday was especially warm, with highs recorded near 45 at 6,500'. North facing aspects were still harboring cold snow and good stability in snowpack tests. East, South and West aspects were of the greatest concern, especially in steep, rocky terrain. I dug in the snow on a SE aspect around 6,500' on Sunday and free water had percolated down 35 cm to the 2/22 rain crust. Fortunately, the temperatures are cooling off today. My biggest concern was if the warm weather and increased snow levels continued we could possibly see wet slab avalanches as the 2/22 crust which was being lubricated by the meltwater running on this stout crust. A group of students was able to watch countless Wet Loose avalanches up the West Eagle drainage in steep rocky terrain that was getting hit by intense sun. Our groups finished riding around 2PM on Sunday due to the intense warming and softening of the snowpack. We did not feel comfortable traveling on or underneath steep, sun-exposed faces.