Observation: NWAC Observer
Basic Information
Observation Details
Observation Date:
December 23, 2021Submitted:
December 23, 2021Observer:
NWAC Observer - Robin PenderyZone or Region:
West SouthLocation:
East Peak (SW BTL/NTL, E NTL)Signs of Unstable Snow
Recent Avalanches?
None ObservedCracking?
IsolatedCollapsing?
None ExperiencedMedia/Attachments
Advanced Information
Weather Summary
Cloud Cover:
ObscuredWind:
StrongNew/Recent Snowfall:
~30 cms below treeline in sheltered areasStrong winds at the ridgeline with significant wind transport. Wind direction was primarily from the W, but we observed significant variability in the loading patterns in the terrain.
Snowpack Observations
Below treeline we found approximatly 30 cms of low density storm snow, well adhered to a firm crust from 12/22.
On S/SW aspects near tree line, we found 10-45 cm of storm snow. There was significant wind transport, and by the end of the day the snow surface was becoming increasingly stiff. Beneath the storm snow, we could locate a thin crust from 12/22, and another from 12/18. These crusts were both ski supportable. The only place we could feel them while skiing was in steep slopes facing due south.
On E aspects near tree line we found 45-60 cm of storm snow. We could not locate crusts from the recent storms in the top 3 ft of the snowpack. Snowpack tests highlighted the interface between the old and new snow, but this interface did not produce significant results.
Avalanche Problems
| Problem | Location | Distribution | Sensitivity | Size | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Wind Slab
|
|
Comments: Sensitive at ridgelines, but limited propagation observed. Small test slopes released slabs that stayed contained within the feature. |