Lizard-flat head range - back side of FAR

<p>A group of several riders in the slack country of the Fernie Alpine Resort. Choosing conservative mellow terrain and skiing on primary SW slopes with no signs of previous avalanche history (Lost Boys Pass). With four compression tests and three extended column tests we confirmed the following. **Tests were done on SW slope, 14:30h, 1760m, angle was 28 degrees. HS: 230cm HN: 30-32cm. New snow was light on the top 5-10cm and increased moisture content with depth** - A freeze thaw layer under the top 30 - 35cm that reacted in both sudden planar and sudden collapse. Facets found on bed surface aprox 3mm - Majority of reactions on the top 30-35cm on CTM - Only a few reaction on the persistent layer 95cm down. reaction was resistant planar on CTH (23) - A number of layers of F1 or P density in the upper 100cm of the snow pack. (30cm, 35cm, 65cm and 95cm) - Signs of avalanche activity from point release and dry loose in upper alpine. Size 1 or smaller. </p>

Terrain Ridden

Mellow slopes.

Terrain Avoided

Alpine slopes, Convex slopes, Steep slopes.

Avalanche Conditions

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

Rapid temperature rise to near zero degrees or wet surface snow.

Snow Conditions

Heavy.

Weather Conditions

Cloudy, Warm.