Rutschblock Test 2_19_2009 Rattlesnake Wilderness

This is on a 33 degee east aspect at 7200' in the Rattlesnake Wilderness East of Montana Snowbowl. RB score of 4 with a quality 1 shear. Slab failed on a thin layer of facets that formed on in early February. This layer has persisted and will be a significant weakness if we receive a large amount of snow during the next snow or wind event. We triggered soft slab avalanches on adjacent NE 40+ degree terrain today. Still calling it a moderate hazard but heavy new snow will bump the hazard to considerable or high on the steeper terrain. This is a widespread condition in Western Montana. Refer to avalanche advisory for February 20 for additional info.

Category:

Education

Tags:

• snow avalanche
• rutschblock
• snow stability tests