Observation: NWAC Forecaster

All Observations

Basic Information

Observation Details

Observation Date:
March 23, 2023
Submitted:
March 23, 2023
Observer:
NWAC Forecaster - Andy Harrington and Dallas Glass
Zone or Region:
Snoqualmie Pass
Location:
Crystal Springs Snowpark

Signs of Unstable Snow

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

Media/Attachments

This frosted donut was an indication that the snowpack was recently warm and wet and capable of producing Wet Avalanches.
A breakable crust was found on most aspects traveled up to 4700'.

Advanced Information

Weather Summary

New/Recent Snowfall:
~1"

Mostly cloudy skies produced intermittent snow flurries for most of the morning. Minimal to zero wind experienced.

No new avalanches were observed but plenty of evidence of older Wet Loose avalanche activity.

Snowpack Observations

Dallas and I traveled plenty of terrain on the sleds today to get a feel for conditions on the eastern side of the Pass proper. Showers produced a dusting of new snow overlaying a variety of mostly crusty surfaces. Crusts from the recent warm and sunny weather were firmer at upper elevations but never fully boot-supportable. Overall, the snow was pretty moist, sometimes just below the surface crust. The day felt very springlike in that it was drippy and borderline rain/snow and fairly warm. At Tacoma Pass near the junction of the Snoqualmie, West South, and East Central Zones, we measured an HS of 125cm (3500'). Some fun riding conditions off the groomed trails in the slushy snow.

Season Series of Getting Stuck on a Sled:
Dallas: 3
Andy: 1

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