Close
Wallowa Avalanche Center

Professional Observation

Basic Information

Observation Details

Observation Date:
March 7, 2021 - March 7, 2021
Submitted:
March 9, 2021
Observer:
WAC - Michael Hatch
Zone or Region:
Northern Wallowas
Location:
Wing Ridge

Signs of Unstable Snow

Recent Avalanches? 
Yes
Cracking? 
Isolated
Collapsing? 
Isolated
Sunday, March 7th, N aspect at 8200' off of South Ridge w/ slope angle of 35 degrees. On a belayed ski cut initiated D1.5 wind slab avalanche. Crown approximately 50 yards wide, 1.5 feet deep, and ran for 300 feet. Pulled out at old/new interface.

Snow Stability

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

Bottom Line

The Northern Wallowas received about 6" of new snow on Saturday, March 6th. Moderate south winds overnight transported this new light density snow onto leeward N-E facing aspects below ridgeline creating 1-2' thick reactive wind slabs. As a demonstration for AIARE Level 2 course students I conducted a belayed and anchored ski cut on a north facing 35 degree slope at approximately 8200' along South Ridge. Initiated a D1.5 avalanche with crown approximately 18" deep, 50 yards wide, and it ran 300'. It broke at the old/new interface and consisted of 4F density wind-deposited snow. We verified the wind slab problem the 3/6 advisory listed as the primary concern.

Media

Advanced Information

Close