Observation: NWAC Forecaster

All Observations

Basic Information

Observation Details

Observation Date:
November 27, 2022
Submitted:
November 27, 2022
Observer:
NWAC Forecaster - Andy Harrington
Zone or Region:
West South
Location:
Crystal Mountain Ski Resort

Signs of Unstable Snow

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

Media/Attachments

Actively blowing snow, textured surfaces, and fresh drifts behind natural objects are all signs there could be fresh Wind Slabs near by.
Shallow wind-stiffened snow collected on a convexity near a rocky outcrop. A good place to trigger a shallow Wind Slab
Plenty of natural hazards are still visible on the snow surface. Some may be buried just below. These also have fresh drifts showing signs of wind effect.
Cracking and small blocks failing in wind-stiffened snow.
There are still plenty of open creeks and other natural hazards, even as you ascend in elevation.
There are still plenty of open creeks and other natural hazards, even as you ascend in elevation (Kendall Lakes 4380')

Advanced Information

Weather Summary

New/Recent Snowfall:
~4"

Mix of clouds and sun, snow (moderate at times), and moderate to strong winds summed up the day. A classic PNW storm with Rainier blocking.

No new avalanches were observed.

Snowpack Observations

Made a quick trip to Crystal to see how the storm was unfolding on Sunday morning. The blinky light was on limiting uphill travel and the Gondi was on wind hold, so I already had information before getting on a lift. The big takeaway for the day was the winds were significant and there was snow transport observed when I had visibility. While the snow totals didn't seem to pan out for Crystal as predicted, the wind certainly made its presence felt with textured surfaces, actively blowing snow, and fresh drifts and piles easily spotted near ridgelines and rocky features. In non-wind-affected terrain, the modest new snow was light and fluffy and generally right-side up.

WordPress Lightbox