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Wallowa Avalanche Center

Professional Observation

Basic Information

Observation Details

Observation Date:
March 11, 2021
Submitted:
March 11, 2021
Observer:
WAC - Victor McNeil
Zone or Region:
Southern Wallowas
Location:
Flagstaff Butte

Signs of Unstable Snow

Recent Avalanches? 
Yes
Cracking? 
None Experienced
Collapsing? 
None Experienced

Snow Stability

Stability Rating: 
Good
Confidence in Rating: 
High
Stability Trend: 
Steady

Bottom Line

Snowmobiled up to Flagstaff Butte and then up to the Wilderness Boundary at 7,000'. We rode down to the West Eagle Meadows and back up to Flagstaff Butte. The most obvious sign of instability was found on steep South-West facing terrain in the form of Wet Loose avalanche debris. We exited the field around 2pm, and the snow surface in the higher elevation terrain we rode in was developing a thin Melt Freeze Crust on solar aspects. Sheltered North facing terrain was still holding cold snow around 6,500' and above. Down at the West Eagle Meadows, the snow was becoming isothermal. We did observe some surface hoar on the way into Taylor Green, in sheltered North facing terrain near the trail.

Media

Wet loose avalanches from underneath steep rock face.

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