Forecaster Observation- Ghoulie Point, Southern Whitefish Range

Location Name: 
Forecaster Observation- Ghoulie Point, Southern Whitefish Range
Region: 
Whitefish Range - Southern (south of Coal Creek)
Date and time of observation: 
Tue, 03/14/2017 - 12:00
Location Map: 

Red Flags: 
Whumphing noises, shooting cracks, or collapsing
Recent loading by new snow, wind, or rain
Rapid warming
Observation made by: Forecaster
Snowpit Observations
Snowpit or crown profile photo or graph: 
Snowpack photos: 
Weather Observations
Blowing Snow: 
No
Cloud Cover: 
100% of the sky covered by clouds
Air temperature: 
Above Freezing
Wind Speed: 
Calm (No air motion)
Precipitation: 
Mixed rain and snow
Air temperature trend: 
Warming
Wind Direction: 
Accumulation rate: 
Less than 1 in. per hour
More detailed information about the weather: 

Because of the forecasted conditions, decided to travel to Ghoulie Point in the Southern Whitefish Range.  Rain level rose to above 6800 feet by 1400 and surface snow was becoming saturated.  Rollerballs and pinwheels were numerous and widespread as the rain line rose and snow was dropping out of trees.  Poor visibility kept us from viewing any activity in other areas. Cracking in the top 4 to 8 inches of snow was fairly widespread. 

We dug a pit at 6600 feet on a NE aspect before the rain line reached that high.  Air temperature was near freezing and the surface of the snow was still dry, but that changed by 1300 as temperatures rose above freezing and rain started falling.  We did not get any propagation in our tests, but didn't find weaknesses within the top 5 to 9 inches of the snowpack.

As we descended towards the Canyon Creek Saddle, we were able to trigger very small, loose wet slides. 

With the warming temperatures and continued rainfall over 6800 feet, we expect that conditions continued to deteriorate throughout the day, making loose wet avalanches more likely.

Activity: 
Skiing
Precip Rate: 
S2; moderate snowfall, 2cm/hour
High Temp. (C): 
2
Low Temp. (C): 
-1