Observation: NWAC Forecaster

All Observations

Basic Information

Observation Details

Observation Date:
February 27, 2022
Submitted:
February 27, 2022
Observer:
NWAC Forecaster - Matt Primomo
Zone or Region:
Stevens Pass
Location:
Skyline (SE-SW 4,000-5,400 NW-NE at 5,400)

Signs of Unstable Snow

Recent Avalanches? 
Yes
Cracking? 
Isolated
Collapsing? 
None Experienced

Media/Attachments

Very widely propagating natural slab avalanches on SE aspects of Lichtenberg Mtn.
This pocket was likely triggered 'sympathetically' from another slide nearby. SW aspect on Lichtenberg.

Advanced Information

Weather Summary

Wind:
Light , E
New/Recent Snowfall:
10" storm snow

Light to moderate snow, subtle but noticeable warming above 4,500ft by 11am. Felt cold at pass level even at noon. Light winds with previous transport observed.

Avalanche Observations

 #  Date Location Size Type Bed Sfc Depth Trigger Photos Details
1 Feb 27, 2022 11:30 am
() 		Skyline 'NW Bowl'
N 5350ft 		D1.5 SS-Soft Slab I-New/Old Interface 0.5ft U-Unknown Report
Link
Skyline 'NW Bowl'

One D2 storm slab with a very wide crown on SE aspect of Lichtenberg. A few smaller pockets were likely triggered sympathetically on adjacent slopes.

Snowpack Observations

On SW aspect at 5,300ft tilt tests failed w just one tap below recent suncrust. ECTP 9 in same place. PST 15/100 (End) here. CTH SP down 65cm on Valentines day crust, very planar.

On a NE aspect that had previous 1F-P hard wind slab, ECTP 18. This was down 45cm on a layer of small near surface facets.

We decided to not ski down into a small north-facing bowl at 5,400ft with steeper sides around it for the chance we could trigger a slide on ourselves while climbing back up. While skiing down lower angled S aspects we were able to release small pockets of storm slab on the recent suncrust.

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