Public Observation - Reactive wind slab south of Marias Pass

Location Name: 
Public Observation - Reactive wind slab south of Marias Pass/Flattop
Region: 
Flathead Range - Marias Pass/Skyland
Date and time of observation: 
Thu, 12/31/2015 - 12:00


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

Cold and windy. High winds created a variety of snow conditions. Wind hammer, soft snow and wind slab all difficult to differentiate until the skis came in contact with the snow. Challenging skiing. Wind slab was very reactive. I was able to get the slabs to fracture even on the 25 degree or less slopes I skied. Also of note, moose are very active below treeline.

Weather Observations
Blowing Snow: 
Yes
Cloud Cover: 
25% of the sky covered by clouds
Air temperature: 
Below Freezing
Wind Speed: 
Strong (Whole trees in motion)
Precipitation: 
None
Air temperature trend: 
Static
Wind Direction: 
Northwest
More detailed information about the weather: 

High probability for frost bite on exposed skin on ridge lines. Windy at all elevations.

Activity: 
Skiing
High Temp. (C): 
17F
Low Temp. (C): 
11F