Observation: Public

Observation Details

Signs of Unstable Snow

Observations

We toured into Sister and found 8" of dry, compact powder on lower elevation aspects. Ascending to the base of the North Face if N. Sister the storm snow depth was up to 2'. Bonding to the M/F crust at this height was not as strong as at lower elevation rain crust/storm layer. Upper level snow also had a wind slab of 4-6 Inches that increased in cohesion as we ascended. Hand shears and pole probes were performed frequently. The upper face was putting out enough warning signs for us to descend and forego the summit of N. Twin. It was a good example of how upper level mountain storm totals can change dramatically as you ascend on Baker and Shuksan. Low elevation ski quality was quite high.