We have limited information about the Jan.17 surface hoar layer in this region. Although we have seen little activity, dig down to see if it is present, especially below 2000m.
Weather Forecast
Still cold Thursday AM (-20c) but valley temperatures should warm to -10C. Clouds will roll in mid- day with a few cm in the forecast.
Snowpack Summary
Wide spread wind effect above treeline has created wind slab on NE to SE aspects. Up to 65cm of snow sits over the Jan.17 surface hoar, especially prevalent between 1800-2000m. In shallower areas weak facets and depth hoar exist below the Dec 10 interface. In deeper snow packs this basal weakness is less pronounced.
Avalanche Summary
No new avalanches reported or observed today.
Problems
Wind Slabs
Wind Slab avalanches are the release of a cohesive layer of snow (a slab) formed by the wind. Wind typically transports snow from the upwind sides of terrain features and deposits snow on the downwind side. Wind slabs are often smooth and rounded and sometimes sound hollow, and can range from soft to hard. Wind slabs that form over a persistent weak layer (surface hoar, depth hoar, or near-surface facets) may be termed Persistent Slabs or may develop into Persistent Slabs.