Observation: Public

Observation Details

Signs of Unstable Snow

Observations

Given the recent storm totals we chose to ski in less steep terrain, and in areas where we did not expect to find deep wind deposited snow.

On solar aspects, we found 4-8 inches of snow over the 12/21 crust. At some locations we could detect a sun crust 2-4 inches below the surface. The snow was generally well bonded, and unreactive to tests.

On polar aspects, we found 12-24 inches of snow and sensitive cornices. Although this snow seemed well bonded and was not reactive on test slopes, we avoided steep unsupported terrain.

During the course of our tour, the snow below 5,500 ft became moist-wet with the rising temps and some sun breaks. We did not observe any natural avalanches, but we saw plenty of roller balls off of steep solar slopes. On small test slopes, the wet snow was easy to push, and entrained snow down to the 12/21 crust.