Observation: NWAC Forecaster
Basic Information
Observation Details
Observation Date:
November 29, 2022Submitted:
November 29, 2022Observer:
NWAC Forecaster - Matt PrimomoZone or Region:
Stevens PassLocation:
Jove Peak (4000-6000ft, S-E-NE)Signs of Unstable Snow
Recent Avalanches?
YesCracking?
None ExperiencedCollapsing?
None ExperiencedMedia/Attachments
Advanced Information
Weather Summary
Cloud Cover:
OvercastWind:
Light , SENew/Recent Snowfall:
5cm throughout the day, leaving the field by 2pm.Beautiful, cold day. The snow that was falling was a mix of smaller particles and large dendrites. Could feel the E winds picking up at the TH by 3pm when we were leaving, but during the day it was calm to light- not moving snow.
Observed 3 recent, small dry loose slides all on the same slope from some cliffy terrain with continuous snow-covered slopes beneath. SE at 5,800ft.
Snowpack Observations
Coverage was quite good for late November, with very low density snow on top. Riding and ski quality was very good, ski pen 50-70cm. I could feel the recent crust (11/25) easily with a pole probe, depth to it varied from 40cm to 90cm depending on elevation and exposure to wind or tree canopy. Above 5,500ft the crust was thinner and quite variable.
The thin zipper crust buried 11/22 was down 50cm to 90cm, and often felt punchy with weaker snow beneath it.
A couple profiles:
SE at 5,300ft, HS 153cm. CT 14/16 Brk down 78cm on 11/22 (SH encased in ice), beneath the thin crust.
ENE at 5,800ft, HS 143cm. CT 14, RP down 50cm on df's within soft snow layers. CTH Brk down 92cm below 11/22 crust, CTH SP down 90 on 11/22 crust, small FC.
Overall we have a right side up, low density snowpack with some weak snow above and below crust layers to keep watching as more snow piles up.
Avalanche Problems
| Problem | Location | Distribution | Sensitivity | Size | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Dry Loose
|
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