Quick report
- Red Flags
- Recent Avalanches, Rapid Warming, Poor Snowpack Structure
- Elevation
- 2804 m
- Red Flags Comment
- <p>As reported from the Wolverine Cirque, it is still possible to trigger (even remotely) large dangerous avalanches; yet these locations appear to be Isolated to the certain Upper Elevation locations that have a cohesive slab that had a contributing factor of Wind Loading from the recent event. That being said, many steep lines have been ridden without consequences, and irregardless, the Widespread Poor Snowpack Structure can be found on almost all aspects and elevations. The tricky part is with these latest warm temperatures the overlying Slab is becoming less sensitive, more stubborn and less reactive; and subsequently one may find themselves well down a slope before the possibility of triggering it becomes a reality. </p>
Snowpack
- Instability Comment
- <p>The Persistent Slab Problem appears to be the only one of consequence right now, see above. The collapsing and cracking that was observed in the same areas on Sunday settled out considerably on Monday. Still being able to find a moderate shear in a density change in the storm, but only in Isolated locations, and it appeared Very Unlikely this issue would a problem of concern. Low Probability/High Consequence Moderate appeared to be the Danger observed. </p>
Dense Loose would not be the best description, more like dense and thick. Snow surface and riding conditions continue to take a hit and become more variable. Riding was "surfy" in many places, yet the bottom would drop out in others. Trail Breaking in the bottomless areas takes you down to the Basal Facets. The real problem is that before this last storm, you could see most of the obstacles, and steer around them to avoid them. This latest coating of new snow has now just barely buried many rocks and stumps and travel is actually more challenging in many locations. Our early season thin cover continues to be a real hazard.