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Wallowa Avalanche Center

Professional Observation

Basic Information

Observation Details

Observation Date:
February 19, 2021 - February 19, 2021
Submitted:
February 20, 2021
Observer:
WAC - Michael Hatch
Zone or Region:
Blues
Location:
Spout Springs Ski Area

Signs of Unstable Snow

Recent Avalanches? 
None Observed
Cracking? 
None Experienced
Collapsing? 
None Experienced
No red flags.

Snow Stability

Stability Rating: 
Fair
Confidence in Rating: 
High
Stability Trend: 
Improving

Bottom Line

At Spout Springs yesterday we found over 4 feet of new snow has been deposited since Friday, 2/12. The snowpack is over 10 feet deep. It was snowing lightly on us all day. The winds were light out of the NW. The 4 feet of new snow is right-side-up gaining strength and density down to the old/new interface. We conducted a Rutschblock test on a NE aspect at 5200'. Results: RB6 EB - partial block failures on density changes within the top 2' of the snowpack and one partial block failure down at the old/new interface. Overall, I would say the snowpack stability is fair, but it will quickly settle out and gain strength over the next few days. I'd avoid slopes >35 degrees and wind-loaded terrain features below ridgelines on N-E aspects.

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