Observation: NWAC Forecaster

All Observations

Basic Information

Observation Details

Observation Date:
January 21, 2022
Submitted:
January 21, 2022
Observer:
NWAC Forecaster - Andrew Kiefer
Zone or Region:
Mt Hood
Location:
Timberline (5800-7800ft, E-S-W aspects)

Signs of Unstable Snow

Recent Avalanches? 
Yes
Cracking? 
None Experienced
Collapsing? 
None Experienced

Media/Attachments

A large fractured cornice above Salmon River Canyon (E, 6300ft)
Fresh cornice fall in the morning hours on an east aspect near 5800ft in White River Canyon
Very icy conditions above 7000ft on the southside of Mt Hood
Firm, icy surfaces with very small patches of chalky, wind-blown snow. Gusty winds and snow sublimation on the upper mountain.

Advanced Information

Weather Summary

Cloud Cover:
Clear
Temperature:
45°F
Wind:
Strong , N
New/Recent Snowfall:
dusting

Amazing increase in temperature from 22F to 40F from 4am to 6am this morning at Timberline. Warm air and sunshine battled strong and gusty north winds. Clear skies early with high thin clouds and filtered sun mid-day.

A small cornice fell in White River Canyon during the morning hours on an east aspect near 5800ft.

Snowpack Observations

Freezing rain and/or riming following many melt-freeze cycles created very slick and icy surfaces above treeline that were slow to thaw even with the warm, sunny (but windy) weather Friday. Surfaces above 6500ft stayed firm and frozen and slide for life conditions were the greatest hazard of the day. Below, snow surfaces on steep southerly aspects began to thaw and soften around noon. Scattered across the icy slopes above treeline there were small patches of wind blown snow 1-2in deep. These primarily created a change in surface texture. Some deeper drifts were visible above 9000ft on the upper mountain.

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