Northwest Avalanche Center - Public Observation

Name:

H. Stopsack/ Dr. C. Van Tilburg M.D. HR Crag Rats Mtn. Rescue

Observation Date:

November 19, 2021

Submitted:

November 19, 2021

Zone or Region:

West South

Activity:

Skiing/Snowboarding

Location:

Mt Adams 7000 ft Morrison Creek Drainage to SW Chutes Saddle

Did you observe any avalanches?

Yes

Comments:

These were spot releases from snow that had fallen from rocks and initiated small slides that traveled the length of slope.

None reported

Wind transport was seen on all Adam's ridges as we approached. Snow transport began at approx 6000 ft as temps cooled. Snow was sun affected at lower elevations. . Interesting observation at 7000 ft.. Despite recent warming and rains. We assumed we would see a very consolidated snow pack. I was curious to see what was happening below my skis. A rapid hand pit or hand exploration was done. We were surprised to see faceting at approx. 20-30cm from the top of the recent storm snow, a layer of faceting 20cm or greater was found. I felt I could have dug deeper and gotten more facets, but I was up to my shoulder already. Diurnal, melt-freeze, or radiation recrystallization? Our current problematic weak layer? Some very early surface hoar was seen at mid elevations with minimal wind exposure. Large amounts of snow transport was seen on the moraines at the below the SW chutes.