Observation: NWAC Forecaster

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Basic Information

Observation Details

Observation Date:
March 29, 2022
Submitted:
March 29, 2022
Observer:
NWAC Forecaster - Andy Harrington
Zone or Region:
West South
Location:
Crystal Mountain

Signs of Unstable Snow

Recent Avalanches? 
Yes
Cracking? 
None Experienced
Collapsing? 
None Experienced

Media/Attachments

Several rounds of recent wet avalanche activity. The largest slide appears to have been due to a cornice collapse.
Starting to look a little thin on East and Norse Peaks.
Cornices were soggy and I watched them actively drip water and shed small chunks.

Advanced Information

Weather Summary

Mostly sunny with some low clouds. Springtime temperatures.

Observed plenty of recent rollerballing, cornice collapses, and Wet Loose avalanche activity in the surrounding Crystal backcountry as well as over in the park [Sourdough range, Goat Island, Governor's Ridge, etc.]

Snowpack Observations

Spent most of the day working on the weather stations but was able to sneak in a few quick observation runs, including a lap out South to get a feel for conditions. Out in Silver Basin, the snow was ripe and cornices were dripping and I watched some chunks fall off around noon. I was able to push snow on some test slopes. Slopes that hadn't seen direct sunshine yet were still a bit firmer, but the crust was easy to punch through with my pole.

Lots of dry ground and rocks were visible around the valley - a testament to the recent springtime weather.

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