Observation: NWAC Forecaster

All Observations

Basic Information

Observation Details

Observation Date:
January 28, 2022
Submitted:
January 28, 2022
Observer:
NWAC Forecaster - Andy Harrington
Zone or Region:
Snoqualmie Pass
Location:
Alpental Valley

Signs of Unstable Snow

Recent Avalanches? 
None Observed
Cracking? 
None Experienced
Collapsing? 
None Experienced

Media/Attachments

Breakable crust with faceted snow below
Snow bridge on the ascent up Alpental Valley is gone due to the prolonged warm temperatures
Weak surface snow on top of a melt-freeze crust

Advanced Information

Weather Summary

Inversion had clouds up to the divide and chilly temperatures throughout the morning.

No new avalanches observed

Snowpack Observations

Found variable surfaces including firm icy slopes, breakable crust, and faceted dry snow. There is a surface melt-freeze crust with surface hoar on top in many locations. Below the crust there is faceted snow above a more stout melt-freeze crust about 10cm below the surface. Travel conditions were difficult through the valley and up toward the divide. We were out of the field early (~12:00) and the fan down toward Source Lake had not softened, making for some firm mogul skiing.

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