Observation: NWAC Observer

All Observations

Basic Information

Observation Details

Observation Date:
March 10, 2022
Submitted:
March 10, 2022
Observer:
NWAC Observer - Robin Pendery
Zone or Region:
West South
Location:
Bullion Basin (BTL and NTL, all aspects)

Signs of Unstable Snow

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

Media/Attachments

Wind effect was visible near ridgelines - note the visible rain runnels on the looker's L, and the pillow of wind deposited snow on the looker's R.
A mix of PP, DF, and FC above the rain crust.

Advanced Information

Weather Summary

Cloud Cover:
Mostly Sunny
Wind:
Light , NW
New/Recent Snowfall:
HST 5-10 cm (3/9)

We experienced clearer skies than forecasted, and were in direct sun untill 2:00 pm when high clouds moved in. Winds were light and generally from the NW. No blowing or drifiting snow during the day.

Widespread debris from the last AR event throughout the backcountry.

Snowpack Observations

On N aspects at 6,000 ft we found 10 cm of low density snow (F) above a robust 20 cm rain crust (P). Directly above the crust, we found 1-2 mm faceting grains, that were striated and well developed.

On SW aspects at 6,000 ft we found 5 cm of new snow (F) above the same rain crust. We did not find facting grains above the crust on solar slopes.

Overall, the best turns were on low angle slopes below treeline, where the new snow has accumulated and there is no avalanche debris. Any steeper slope holds significant amounts of debris, and a firm crust that makes travel difficult.

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