Observation: NWAC Forecaster
Basic Information
Observation Details
Observation Date:
March 16, 2023Submitted:
March 17, 2023Observer:
NWAC Forecaster - Joe DellaportaZone or Region:
Mt HoodLocation:
Pea Gravel/Heather & Clark CanyonsSigns of Unstable Snow
Recent Avalanches?
YesCracking?
None ExperiencedCollapsing?
None ExperiencedMedia/Attachments
Advanced Information
Weather Summary
Cloud Cover:
ClearTemperature:
32°FWind:
Light , SEVery spring-like day with calm, clear, and mild temperatures. Solar aspects started getting moist, even above treeline.
Avalanche Observations
| # | Date | Location | Size | Type | Bed Sfc | Depth | Trigger | Photos | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Mar 15, 2023 () |
Upper Newton Canyon SE ft |
D2 R3 |
HS-Hard Slab | N-Natural |
|
Report |
Snowpack Observations
On Thursday, I skinned up Pea Gravel Ridge followed by using ski area lifts to see multiple aspects/elevations. On Pea Gravel, I noted another large (natural) avalanche on a SE aspect at 7300’ (HS-N-R3-D2-U). This avalanche likely occurred in the last 1-3 days during one of our loading events. Look at the picture in the gallery for more information.
At lower elevations, I observed a widespread (mostly supportable) melt-freeze crust that extends to 5500’ that was capped with a fresh crop of surface hoar. Climbing higher in the terrain, I observed chalky wind blown snow, moist snow forming on west aspects, and sastrugi on windward slopes.
Avalanche Problems
| Problem | Location | Distribution | Sensitivity | Size | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Wind Slab
|
|
Comments: Its been two days since our last significant loading event. These hard slabs are acting stubborn (trending towards unreactive) and not providing much feedback. However, recent large natural activity illustrates the destructive capabilities of these slabs. |