10-11

This snowpit shows a faceted layer just under an ice crust about 2ft deep.  It is not a major concern as it does not have enough stress from recent snow to produce widespread avalanches.  However, its ability to propagate fractures (ECTP) is a red flag that tells us human triggered avalanches are definitely possible.  Check the videos from Feb 17th and Feb 6th.

Northern Gallatin, 2011-02-18

Plumes of snow were easily observed in the Bridger Range from Bozeman on Thursday afternoon Feb 17.  This wind loading is a red flag that the weather is contributing to instability.  Wind slabs near ridgetops will likely produce human tirggered avalanches.  Photo: GNFAC

Bridger Range, 2011-02-17