Saddle of Oakes Gulf

Today we hiked up Ammonoosuc Ravine Trail to assess the west side and see what snow conditions were like on southern aspects in Oakes Gulf. Skies were mostly clear with calm winds. Temperatures were around 20 degrees F and surface hoar was present below treeline. Snow from the last weather event still remained in trees all the way up to treeline.  We noted a 4 mm crust layer on most snow surfaces between 4400 feet and 5000 feet of elevation, possibly a sun crust from the previous days. Winds were moderate above treeline, but no snow was being transported. 

In Oakes Gulf at 5100 feet, pockets of wind affected snow were present. They varied in thickness across the terrain, however most areas were wind scoured. Where snow did exist, the depth was slightly greater than expected and ranged from 5 inches to 30 inches. In handsheer tests the wind slab layer was between 5-8 inches thick and stubborn to react. No crust was present. 

Take-aways:

• On south aspects, the wind slab avalanche hazard was isolated and stubborn to react in handsheers. Similar to what we’ve been seeing on eastern aspects, however with slightly more snow depth. 
• Snow remains available for transport on western aspects, but it will likely take consistent  strong winds to move it.