Observation: NWAC Forecaster
Basic Information
Observation Details
Observation Date:
April 9, 2023Submitted:
April 9, 2023Observer:
NWAC Forecaster - Joe DellaportaZone or Region:
Mt HoodLocation:
Lookout MtnSigns of Unstable Snow
Recent Avalanches?
None ObservedCracking?
None ExperiencedCollapsing?
None ExperiencedMedia/Attachments
Advanced Information
Weather Summary
Cloud Cover:
OvercastTemperature:
Above freezing°FWind:
Moderate , SWIt was a mild, drizzly day out there ahead of the atmospheric river. We did observe a couple short lived sun breaks around 1100, but overcast skies were the main story. Warming temps and rain made actively broke down the surface crust.
Snowpack Observations
The surface crust is breaking down at lower and mid-elevations due to rising freezing levels and rain. At 6000 ft this melt-freeze crust was still ski supportable, but not boot supportable anymore. The upper 15cm of the snowpack is now comprised of wet grains, with dry snow under this @ 6000'.
Steep test slopes felt sloppy, especially on aspects that faced south. Filtering sun allowed for rollerballs and pinwheels to shed off of steep, rocky terrain.
Lower elevations near the Little John Sno-Park are starting to melt out. We only encountered a few bare-spot along the road, but the coverage is getting thin in lower 1000 ft.
Avalanche Problems
| Problem | Location | Distribution | Sensitivity | Size | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Wet Loose
|
|