Improving stability in Dickey Creek

Location Name: 
Forecaster Observation- Dickey Cr, Flathead Range
Observation date: 
Friday, January 12, 2018 - 16:45

Is this an Avalanche Observation: 
Yes
Observation made by: Forecaster

Location

Tabs

Quick Observation

No obvious signs of instability except for a recent slab avalanche, ~18” deep

 

We found the 1/9 rain crust up to at least 6400’ on some slopes. There was about 45 cm above the crust at higher elevations, with slightly faceted snow above and below the crust. Stability tests suggested the storm slab above the crust is adjusting (ECTN M). The Thanksgiving crust is buried 170 cm. At lower elevations, there was 10-15cm over a strong rain crust.

 

Light snowfall through the day. 4” since yesterday. Moderate SW wind gusts at higher elevations but minimal snow transport. A zipper rime crust was forming on high, windward slopes.

 

 

Snowpack, Avalanche, Weather Images: 
Travel Details
Region: 
Flathead Range - Middle Fork Corridor
Route Description: 

Dickey Cr to 7000 ‘

Snowpack Details
Snowpack and Weather Details: 
Hide Terrain
Elevation of observation: 
3500-5000 ft
5000-6500 ft
Above 6500 ft
Aspect(s) of observation: 
SE
S
New Snow in the past 24 hours: 
4.00in.
Total Snow Depth: 
205 cm
Avalanche Details
Avalanche Details: 
Date and Time of Avalanche: 
Wednesday, January 10, 2018 - 16:45
Avalanche Type: 
Soft Slab
Failure Plane/Weak Layer: 
New/old snow interface
Hide Trigger
Trigger: 
natural
Hide Terrain
Aspect: 
Southeast
Starting Elevation: 
above-treeline