Observation: NWAC Observer

All Observations

Basic Information

Observation Details

Observation Date:
February 23, 2023
Submitted:
February 23, 2023
Observer:
NWAC Observer - Sam Luthy
Zone or Region:
Olympics
Location:
West Angeles (4400-5800 E-S-W)

Signs of Unstable Snow

Recent Avalanches? 
Yes
Cracking? 
Isolated
Collapsing? 
None Experienced

Advanced Information

Weather Summary

Cloud Cover:
Obscured
Temperature:
10°F
Wind:
Light , E
New/Recent Snowfall:
6cm HN 25cm HST

Obscured terrain and one of the colder days I have spent at HR. Lightly snowing thru the day with light east winds. 20+ cm of snow is available to transport but the current winds are not affecting it much despite its low density.

SZ1 Loose dry on all aspects in steep 40deg terrain
SZ1 wind slab along ridgelines

Snowpack Observations

HS185 E@ 5000ft 33deg 25cm HST above the 2/20 crust. The warming on 2/19 and 2/20 has added another crust sandwich to the mix. CTM results on the 4F DF snow that lies between these K upper two crusts. With the current light load on the upper snow pack and no overlying slab to speak of more loading will be needed to get any activity.
The 2/13 crusts can be found around 40cm and are slowly breaking down.
The 2/3 crust interface that has shown activity in small and large Collum tests in pervious obs was not identified in this pit.

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