Strong snowpack in the Swan

Traveled to Noisy Basin in the Swan Range to observe storm slab development and continue monitoring the deep slab problem.

• Storm Slab development was minimal on all aspects and elevations that we traveled.
• The Deep Slab problem is becoming less of a concern due to strengthening of the facets surrounding the Thanksgiving / December 17  rain crusts, combined with the depth these layers are now buried beneath the surface.
• Snowdepths at upper elevations averaged 90+ inches in the areas we traveled.
• Visibility was poor but no avalanche activity was noted.
• Cracking occurred underfoot but no shooting cracks or collapses observed.
• 24" of new snow has been deposited at upper elevations since 1/9.