Observation: Public

Observation Details

Signs of Unstable Snow

Observations

Rain turned to snow just before Sno Park. Wet sled ride in but snowing by 4k.

Snow was heavy to about 4.5k and got better with altitude. Once in open terrain up higher, wind got more pronounced and wind transport was evident. Shallow slabs grew in thickness as we gained elevation. Shooting cracks to about 3ft. Felt snow collapse while breaking trail around 6k and dug a quick pit.

A few hot takes to note from 6000" WSW

1. 12-18" of new snow above Xmas crust.

2. With the exception of recent storm snow/wind transport (4-6"), snow is bonding well to Xmas crust.

3. VERY dry, fine, rounded, faceted snow below Xmas crust (1" in thickness). Could not define late nov crust. Everything below mega-faceted layer is also composed of rounded facets, but they seem to be fairly well bonded. 4F hardness.

4. Xmas Crust varies in thickness (1-3"). I had a collapse onto the dry sugary facets below in a thin section. I was not able to get thicket sections to collapse or fail.

5. Snow depth was 42" to dirt. Still fairly shallow, watch out for boulders where applicable.

Storm slab broke on ski cut on upper 30s to low 40s degree slope. Shallow enough to be not worrisome.

Ski quality was very good.