Stable conditions on Snowshed

Due to a lack of weather stations in the Flathead Range, I traveled outside of Essex to determine snow totals from the recent storm.

• No new snow was observed below 5700' with just 2" of new snow at 7400'.
• The storm slab problem was isolated to leeward locations and was only up to 3" deep. Cracking was observed but these pockets were stubborn to triggering.
• The day was mostly sunny which softened the snow surface at all elevations. Lower elevation snow became mushy with rollerballs triggered during my descent.
• No storm slab or loose wet slides observed.
• Cornices were sizable from both east and west winds above 6500'.
• Surface hoar was preserved under the 2" of new snow in isolated locations above 5000'.