Rain at night, maybe hell in the morning?

Location Name: BNSF Avalanche Safety - Snowslip Mtn GNP Observation date: Saturday, December 18, 2021 - 23:15	Is this an Avalanche Observation: No

Observation made by: Public

Tabs

Quick Observation

Climbed the SE ridge of Snowslip Mtn. to 6500’ elevation observing conditions in the Burnout, Shed 4D, Shed 5, and Shed 7 avalanche paths. Descended the same route.
Objectives were to observe recent snowfall totals and the extent of recent wind-loading, look for recent avalanche activity, and check out snowpack structure and stability in this area.

No avalanche activity observed but visibility was limited by clouds and snowfall.

Moderate to heavy wind-loading occurring at all elevations today from moderate to strong westerly winds.
Wind-loading was most pronounced above 6000’ with new slabs 2-3’ thick since Thursday (12/16).
Experienced one audible collapse and shooting cracks (10-20’ long) at 6300’ on a SE aspect slope near the Shed 7 East avalanche path.
Dug a hasty pit in the Burnout path at 5300’, east aspect, snow depth was 26”. There was a layer of rounding facets 4” above the ground resting on top of melt freeze crust. ECTN25 and CT25 Q2 on this layer. Otherwise right side up layering and no other notable fractures.
Dug a hasty pit in the Shed 4D path at 5900’, SE aspect, snow depth 37”. ECTN23 and CT22 Q2 on a layer of buried graupel at 18”. Otherwise right side up layering and no other notable fractures.

Overcast skies with snowfall (S-1 to S2), and moderate to strong westerly winds. Another 1-3” of snow fell before nightfall.
Temperatures have warmed rapidly this evening and reached above freezing at 2200. Snow changing to rain on the Canyon floor.

Travel Details

Region:

Flathead Range/Glacier National Park - John F. Stevens Canyon

Activity:

Skiing