Observation: NWAC Forecaster
Basic Information
Observation Details
Observation Date:
April 21, 2022Submitted:
April 21, 2022Observer:
NWAC Forecaster - Andrew KieferZone or Region:
Mt HoodLocation:
Pea Gravel Ridge (All Aspects, 4600-6600ft)Signs of Unstable Snow
Recent Avalanches?
YesCracking?
IsolatedCollapsing?
None ExperiencedMedia/Attachments
Advanced Information
Weather Summary
Cloud Cover:
Mostly CloudyTemperature:
25-35°FWind:
Moderate , SWNew/Recent Snowfall:
15-20cm (6-8in) HN24Temperatures rose from 25F to 35F during the tour, mostly cloudy early with increasing sun and clearing skies by afternoon, moderate SW winds at ridgetop with strong gusts and blowing snow
Several winds slabs observed in upper Heather and Clark Canyons, both natural and artificially triggered, primarily on N and E aspects. Most were from yesterday, but several were fresh. Avalanches were up to D2 in size with crowns ranging from 4in-2ft deep. Many natural but small cornice falls as well along Pea Gravel Ridge. A crop of fresh rollerballs and D1 loose wet activity occurred on sunny slopes near and below treeline.
Snowpack Observations
15-20cm (6-8in) of new snow sat on a thin rain crust that formed and was subsequently buried on 4/20. Noticeably drier recent snow was found above 5000ft, but most sunny slopes and areas below treeline had moist surfaces by afternoon. Cornices were particularly large and overhung along Pea Gravel Ridge, and looming over its easterly aspects. Cornices were actively growing with additional loading, and were soft and easy to trigger. Wind slabs were easy to find around the compass, but most pronounced on easterly aspects. They were noticeably thicker and more sensitive above treeline, but exist near and below treeline as well.
Avalanche Problems
| Problem | Location | Distribution | Sensitivity | Size | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Wind Slab
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Cornice
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Wet Loose
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