Observation: NWAC Forecaster
Basic Information
Observation Details
Observation Date:
December 23, 2021Submitted:
December 23, 2021Observer:
NWAC Forecaster - Matt PrimomoZone or Region:
Stevens PassLocation:
SkylineSigns of Unstable Snow
Recent Avalanches?
YesCracking?
IsolatedCollapsing?
None ExperiencedMedia/Attachments
Advanced Information
Weather Summary
New/Recent Snowfall:
Storm snow ranged from 13" to 20"
Bouts of heavier snowfall between moderate snow. Strong and gusty winds at times. Intense blowing snow in exposed locations.
Trees were toppling over under the weight of the snow and wind.
Easily triggered D1 wind slab on a small slope near treeline. See video below.
Snowpack Observations
We found 13"-20" of recent snow over the very thin, zipper crust from 12/21. Weaker snow and some preserved stellars can be found beneath this crust, which created a somewhat hollow-sounding snowpack and localized collapsing underfoot.
Outside of wind-affected areas ski penetration is knee deep, foot penetration is close to waist-deep.
Avalanche Problems
| Problem | Location | Distribution | Sensitivity | Size | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Wind Slab
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Dry Loose
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Comments: Lots of loose dry, but exhibited some potential to propagate into wider storm slabs. |