Observation: Avalanche Professional
Basic Information
Observation Details
Observation Date:
February 3, 2022Submitted:
February 3, 2022Observer:
Avalanche Professional - Zack WentzZone or Region:
Snoqualmie PassLocation:
Friendly Trees and the Lower Phantom (3200'-4700'; W-SE aspects)Signs of Unstable Snow
Recent Avalanches?
YesCracking?
IsolatedCollapsing?
None ExperiencedMedia/Attachments
Advanced Information
Weather Summary
Cloud Cover:
OvercastWind:
CalmNew/Recent Snowfall:
20-45cms HST depending on if below forested crown cover (20cms) or 45cms (in high elevation openings)Light snow (S-1) during the observation duration (0830-1200), calm winds, 20-40cms boot pen depending again on if below crown cover or in openings at high elevation
Numerous sz 1 loose dry avalanches were initiated on steep (>40 degree) slopes, both in the trees and in openings. Debris ran far and fast.
Snowpack Observations
Snowpack Summary: 20-45cms HST, ranging between F+ dry new snow (above 4000') to 4F moist new snow (below 4000'), sits atop the 1/30 melt freeze crust (2022-01-30 MFcr). No facets or surface hoar were observed below the storm snow above the 1/30 melt freeze crust. No wind effect observed in our observation area (W-SE aspects up to 4700'). The lower snowpack is well settled and strong, and very supportable by skis. In valley bottoms, open creeks and shallowly exposed trees/rocks pose some hazard.
Avalanche Problems
| Problem | Location | Distribution | Sensitivity | Size | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Dry Loose
|
|
Comments: Specific to slopes >35 degrees |