Thar Peak Critical Loading

<p>A party of 14 observed several size 1-2.5 avalanches, on the SE slopes of Thar Peak in open trees starting in the early afternoon. The critical loading from the overnight storm was slow to consolidate, and produced slabs on the underlying ice crust. Compression tests and extended column test did not result in clean shearing or propagation on a 25 degree slope, with a pop at as little as CTE 6. Steeper wind loaded features and convex rolls saw propagation and releases from both natural and accidental skier triggering.</p>

Weather Report

<p>Skies had cleared between 12-2PM with cloud cover and light snow returning mid afternoon. Mostly calm with occasional light winds throughout the day. </p>

Terrain Ridden

Mellow slopes, Convex slopes, Open trees.

Terrain Avoided

Alpine slopes, Steep slopes, Convex slopes.

Avalanche Conditions

30cm + of new snow, or significant drifting, or rain in the last 48 hours.

Slab avalanches today or yesterday.

Whumpfing or drum-like sounds or shooting cracks.

Snow Conditions

Wind affected, Powder.

Weather Conditions

Cloudy, Sunny.