Observation: Avalanche Professional

All Observations

Basic Information

Observation Details

Observation Date:
January 24, 2022
Submitted:
January 27, 2022
Observer:
Avalanche Professional - Zack Wentz
Zone or Region:
West South
Location:
Mount Saint Helens - Worm Flows (SW-SE; 2600'-8300')

Signs of Unstable Snow

Recent Avalanches? 
None Observed
Cracking? 
None Experienced
Collapsing? 
None Experienced

Media/Attachments

Advanced Information

Weather Summary

Cloud Cover:
Clear
Temperature:
32°F
Wind:
Moderate , SE

Clear skies all day, warm, with VF at approx. 1500'. PM winds sustained at light from the SE, with gusts to M-S from the SE.

Observed two Na sz 2 cornice avalanches on a SE aspect, one at 5200' and the other at 8000', both in cross-loaded gully features. Likely approx. a day old, ran 150', and were 50' wide. SZ angle: 40 degrees for both (first one is pictured).

Snowpack Observations

Snowpack Summary: Widespread isothermal melt-freeze conditions up to the weather antennae at 5600'. Above 5600', ridges are wind-scoured and icey, with gullies holding isothermal snow and similar spring-like melt freeze conditions.

Avalanche Problems

Problem Location Distribution Sensitivity Size Comments
Cornice
Isolated
Specific
Widespread
Unreactive
Stubborn
Reactive
Touchy
D1
D1.5
D2
D2.5
D3
D3.5
D4
D4.5
D5
 Comments: Likely failed during height of the warming
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