Mount Emmons

Observed primarily East through South aspects at all elevation bands on Mount Emmons. About 11" of new snow rested above melt-freeze crusts of varying strengths (weaker on East aspects, stronger on South), with deeper amounts on wind-loaded features (up to 22") and lesser amounts on windward features (7"). Snow surfaces were minimally affected by wind except for the typical cornice development on leeward (Northeast through Southeast) ridgelines and some small wind slabs on leeward features above treeline. I initiated a small (D1) Dry Loose avalanche with a cornice drop on a Northeast aspect near treeline. This was the only avalanche activity observed, though limited visibility impacted observations. 

Isolated minor cracking on cornices on leeward ridgelines. One cornice block I intentionally released near treeline initiated a small Dry Loose avalanche on the steep slope below (Northeast aspect, 11,500').

11" of new snow below treeline, increasing to 12" near treeline. The new snow sits atop melt-freeze crusts of varying thicknesses dependent on aspect and slope angle. Stronger crusts exist on Southerly aspects, with a weaker, collapsible crust observed on an Easterly aspect at 11,200'. I stomped on a few small East-facing test slopes near treeline but did not initiate any shooting cracks or collapses. 

Above treeline, 11" of new snow showed minimal wind effects on the broad, South-Southeast shoulder of Mount Emmons (standard Red Lady uptrack/Red Lady Glades descent). Some wind-affected locations held lesser amounts (7"). Only the most wind-exposed ridgeline features near and above treeline showed significant evidence of wind-loading (cornices and small wind slabs). One drifted pocket above treeline was nearly two feet deep. Plenty of snow remains available for transport if winds increase this afternoon/evening.