Professional Observation
Basic Information
Observation Details
Observation Date:
January 21, 2021 - January 23, 2021Submitted:
January 23, 2021Observer:
WAC - Killian Sump, Blu RisseeuwZone or Region:
Southern WallowasLocation:
Norway BasinSigns of Unstable Snow
Recent Avalanches?
YesCracking?
IsolatedCollapsing?
None Experienced
Found small, isolated wind slabs (wind skins) in the alpine that were less than 3 inches deep and did not propagate much. Observed a few wet loose avalanches on a South-facing slope near 8,500 ft (pictured)
Snow Stability
Stability Rating:
GoodConfidence in Rating:
HighStability Trend:
SteadyBottom Line
Since Jan 13th, the Wallowas have seen minimal snow accumulation but have seen the affects wind and sun. On Jan 21st we received about an inch of new snow (2cm) throughout the Southern Wallowas, followed by strong winds from the NW today. We got moderate failures in the top 6 inches (25 cm) of the snowpack during our compression tests, but did not see propagation in our ECT near 7,000. Overall, we have been feeling good about the snowpack’s stability, keeping in mind the surface problems: Wet Loose on South Aspects and isolated Wind Slab potential, especially in the alpine. Snow surface in the alpine varies from boiler plate to crust to softer wind deposit.
Media
