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Whumph there it is
Location Name:
Forecaster Observation- Mt Stanton, GNP
Observation date:
Monday, December 24, 2018 - 14:30
Is this an Avalanche Observation:
No
Observation made by:
Forecaster
Tabs
Quick Observation
Toured up the SW shoulder of Stanton
We observed 7 localized collapses, radiating ~60 feet at mid elevations. These seemed to be in areas with a bit more wind drifting. This is the most feedback on the PS problem that I’ve gotten this season.
Poor structure was obvious with pole probing: ~12”-18” 4F slab over weak (Fist hard) facets/crusts. Where the slab was thinner, softer, or untouched by wind, we didn’t see signs of instability
A few inches of new snow and light winds weren’t a concern for any storm snow instabilities.
Travel Details
Region:
Glacier National Park - McDonald Lake Area
Route Description:
Trout Lake Trail to SW shoulder of Stanton, up to 6400’
Activity:
Skiing
Snowpack Details
Snowpack and Weather Details:
Terrain
Elevation of observation:
5000-6500 ft
Aspect(s) of observation:
SW
Red Flags:
Collapsing / whumpfing noises
Persistent Weak Layers:
Facets or Faceted Crust
Buried
New Snow in the past 24 hours:
2.00in.
Total Snow Depth:
25”
More comments about the snowpack and weather:
Collapsing started around 5700’
Blowing Snow:
None
Wind Speed:
Light (Twigs in motion)
Snow line:
3000’
Sky Cover:
Mostly Cloudy (BRK)
Highest Precipitation Rate:
No Precipitation (NO)
Avalanche Details
Avalanche Details:
Date and Time of Avalanche:
Monday, December 24, 2018 - 14:30
