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Wallowa Avalanche Center

Professional Observation

Basic Information

Observation Details

Observation Date:
December 4, 2022
Submitted:
December 4, 2022
Observer:
WAC - Sarah Jakober
Zone or Region:
Elkhorns
Location:
Northern Elkhorns. N-W aspects between 7000'-8200'.

Signs of Unstable Snow

Recent Avalanches? 
None Observed
Cracking? 
None Experienced
Collapsing? 
None Experienced
Moderate blowing snow. No other red flags observed.

Snow Stability

Stability Rating: 
Good
Confidence in Rating: 
Low
Stability Trend: 
Improving

Media

Advanced Information

Weather Summary

Cloud Cover:
Obscured
Temperature:
-4C at 8200'
Wind:
Moderate , S

S-1, moderate to intense blowing snow with snow available for transport. Skin tracks were about half way drifted over after an hour. Moderate S winds with strong gusts.

Avalanche Observations

No avalanches observed

Snowpack Observations

See snowpilot notes... Fx's observed during compression tests were within and below the most recent storm snow; no propagation observed. Columns underneath the Fx's shown in the photo were surprisingly solid and both came out in one piece (no weakness around any of the MF crusts).

Avalanche Problems

Problem Location Distribution Sensitivity Size Comments
Wind Slab
Isolated
Specific
Widespread
Unknown
D1
D1.5
D2
D2.5
D3
D3.5
D4
D4.5
D5
Storm Slab
Isolated
Specific
Widespread
Unreactive
Stubborn
Reactive
Touchy
D1
D1.5
D2
D2.5
D3
D3.5
D4
D4.5
D5
None Specified

Confidence is low due to lack of information/terrain covered.

Terrain Use

Did not travel in avalanche terrain today.

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