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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:
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)
