Public Observation - Middle Fork Corridor, Flathead Range

Location Name: 
Public Observation - Middle Fork Corridor, Flathead Range
Region: 
Flathead Range - Middle Fork Corridor
Date and time of observation: 
Wed, 12/07/2016 - 12:00
Location Map: 

Red Flags: 
Recent loading by new snow, wind, or rain
Observation made by: Public
Snowpit Observations
More detailed information about the snowpack: 

Toured into the Snowshed Mountain region today. Trailbreaking was moderate in the lower elevations (new snow/abundant downfall), around 5200' the travel became easier. 

Dug a pit on a North aspect at 6200'. Total snow depth: 85cm. Conducted a compression test which resulted in failure on a layer of facets 55cm from the surface. CT23. Shear quality: Q3. 

East slopes were experiencing light to moderate wind with developement of thin wind slabs present at the surface. 

Overall, the lower terrain needs a bit of settling and/or new snow to allow for ease of off-trail endeavors. The higher terrain (6500' +) is looking great despite the obvious wind and cross loading on relative slopes. 

Weather Observations
Blowing Snow: 
Yes
Air temperature: 
Below Freezing
Wind Speed: 
Moderate (Small trees sway)
Air temperature trend: 
Static
Wind Direction: 
East
Activity: 
Skiing
Precip Rate: 
S -1; very light snowfall, trace to 0.5cm/hour
High Temp. (C): 
-16
Low Temp. (C): 
-20