Elkhorns

A few inches of new snow will do little to change the avalanche danger. However, with the lack of reports the last few days, we don't know exactly how much new snow or wind effect is at upper elevations.  Loose dry snow could sweep you off your feet, especially above a crust. Look for textured, hard wind-drifted snow or cracking.  If you see these signs or your gut is queasy, move to low-angled slopes.  

Today's forecast is sponsored by Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort.

No listed problems does not mean no danger.  Enjoy the snow refresh and colder temperatures while maintaining your powers of observation and safe travel techniques. 

Current State of the Snowpack:  An observer on Valentine's day near Van Patten Butte reported a weak, faceted snowpack on a northerly aspect with roughly 1.5 feet of snow and a 1 inch melt freeze crust on a southern aspect. How much new snow exists in Angell/Hoffer basins, or observed wind effect, would be helpful to know for today.  

Today's extra inch of snow is unlikely to activate deeper weak layers, but forecasters and observers are still finding concerning structure with facets sandwiched between the melt-freeze crusts from 1/3, and now 2/8. We have not witnessed avalanches on it or seen tests indicating instability.  However, as the new snow settles into a more cohesive slab, and as it loads further with more snow, we should pause to see how the snowpack handles the additional load.

Observations: If you are out in the mountains, please send us an observation of what you saw. All observations are noteworthy and greatly help the forecasters. If you snapped some photos, please include those as well.  

Beacon Parks: Thank you to everyone who helped establish the beacon training park at Anthony Lakes (across from the ski lift on Mud Lake) and near the warming shelter at Salt Creek Summit snopark outside of Joseph, OR. These are free tools that we should all take advantage of.  

Upcoming Events:  Snowmobile Riding Clinic for Snow Professionals Feb 26-27

If you are a snow professional who’s interested in building your snowmobile skills and technique, or are looking to advance to the next level, the Wallowa Avalanche Center is offering a 2-day clinic on February 26-27.  This clinic is open to Avalanche Forecasters, ski patrollers, ski guides, and other industry professionals.  Click here to learn more.