Observation: NWAC Forecaster
Basic Information
Observation Details
Observation Date:
January 23, 2022Submitted:
January 23, 2022Observer:
NWAC Forecaster - Dallas GlassZone or Region:
Snoqualmie PassLocation:
Chair Peak (E-S-W below and near treeline. )Signs of Unstable Snow
Recent Avalanches?
YesCracking?
None ExperiencedCollapsing?
None ExperiencedMedia/Attachments
Advanced Information
Weather Summary
Cloud Cover:
ClearTemperature:
40°FWind:
Light , NNew/Recent Snowfall:
NoneBeautiful day in the mountains! A shallow but strong temperatures inversion below about 3600' created cold weather at the trailhead. Once above, temperatures were very warm. Light to moderate N-NW winds were felt at ridgecrest above the N Slope of Chair Peak.
Avalanche Observations
| # | Date | Location | Size | Type | Bed Sfc | Depth | Trigger | Photos | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Jan 22, 2022 () |
Humpback Mt NE 4000ft |
D2 R3 |
WS-Wet Slab | G-Ground | N-Natural | Report | ||
| 1 |
Jan 22, 2022 () |
Upper Basin of Chair Peak NW 5800ft |
D2 R2 |
U-Unknown | N-Natural |
|
Report | ||
| 1 |
Jan 22, 2022 () |
E Face Chair Peak SE 5800ft |
D2 R2 |
WS-Wet Slab | G-Ground | N-Natural |
|
Report | |
| 1 |
Jan 20, 2022 () |
North Slope Chair Peak N 5600ft |
D3 R2 |
WS-Wet Slab | G-Ground | 10ft | N-Natural |
|
Report |
There are lots of signs of avalanches from recent wet cycles Jan 11-12 and Jan 20. However, the more recent glide avalanches are what really stand out.
Snowpack Observations
The snow surface was well frozen in the morning. This produced icy conditions on some slopes. This surface crust was measured to be 1ft (30cm) or more thick in most areas. 1-2" (3-5cm) of soft spring-like snow was found on the surface by 11 am. I was able to trigger rollerballs on very steep S facing slopes, but could not trigger a loose wet avalanche.
In shaded areas (including just in the shadows of large trees) 4" (10cm) of snow was found from Jan 20 above 3800'. This snow was well bonded to the underlying thick crust.
Glide cracks were evident on many slopes. Water could be heard and seen running off of exposed rocks. When digging into the snow, the mid-pack appeared blue and emphasized the water still moving.
Avalanche Problems
| Problem | Location | Distribution | Sensitivity | Size | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Glide
|
|
Unknown |