Northwest Avalanche Center

Observation: Public

All Observations

Observation Details

Name:
A Lubetski
Observation Date:
January 5, 2021
Submitted:
January 5, 2021
Zone or Region:
East Central
Activity:
Skiing/Snowboarding
Location:
Mission

Signs of Unstable Snow

Did you see shooting cracks? 
Yes, Isolated
Did you experience collapsing or whumpfing? 
Yes, Widespread

Observations

9a.m. ~5.6k elevation. Gusts of 15-20mph. Sunny quickly turning to overcast.

Dug two quick pits. One on ESE aspect. One on NE aspect. CTV SP Q1 on both pits - New snow failed on layer of facets (broken, wind-affected snow). These results were consistent and easily repeatable.

Variable depth of top layer but both pits had a top layer consisting of ~20cm wind slab.

Could also identify many different wind blown layers in quick pits.

Was able to get a slide to propagate pretty good by stomping on a wind drift (picture attached).

Lots and lots of collapses and whumpfing

Prospectus: the new snow paired with high winds tonight will add significantly to an already dangerous snow pack. Add some sun, as forecasted for tomorrow, and a natural avalanche cycle will most likely be in full swing tomorrow.

Media

Two stomps and BAM!
Example of slab thickness
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