skiing

Location Name: 
Forecastor Observation - Flathead Range
Observation date: 
Thursday, December 17, 2020 - 18:15

Is this an Avalanche Observation: 
No
Observation made by: Forecaster

Tabs

Quick Observation

We took advantage of a day off to enjoy soft snow in the Middle Fork.

  • We stuck to sheltered terrain where the surface was comprised of loose snow.
  • Moderate west-southwest winds transported snow, but we avoided those slopes in favor of softer, safer conditions.
  • The recent 12/14 freezing rain crust was imperceptible below 6000' and did not exist above there.
  • Up to 8" of snow rests on the 12/8 melt-freeze crust above 6500'.
Snowpack, Avalanche, Weather Images: 
Travel Details
Region: 
Flathead Range - Middle Fork Corridor
Route Description: 
Activity: 
Skiing
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
Red Flags: 
Blowing snow
Persistent Weak Layers: 
Facets or Faceted Crust
New Snow in the past 24 hours: 
3.00in.
Total Snow Depth: 
45
More comments about the snowpack and weather: 
Snowpit at 6800'. HS=45". CT11x2 8" down from the surface in facets on the top of the 12/8 melt-freeze crust. The basal ice mass is imposing in this location and 18" thick.
Blowing Snow: 
Moderate
Wind Speed: 
Moderate (Small trees sway)
Wind Direction: 
Southwest
Air temperature: 
Below Freezing
Snow line: 
3000'
Sky Cover: 
Overcast (OVC)
Highest Precipitation Rate: 
Moderate Snowfall (S2)