Return of the Winter

<p>This report is from an Island Alpine Guides AST 1 field day on Mount Washington. Winter made a return with 30+ cm of new snow on the ground. Our group stuck to non- avalanche terrain within the ski resort and had a great day learning avalanche skills on a high hazard day. The snow fell quite heavy, with the upper 10 cm falling during even higher temps creating a stiffer layer on top. Our group did not witness any natural avalanches from any terrain we observed. A compression test produced an easy sudden collapse result down 40cm on the interface between the old snow and new snow. Whumpfing was heard and felt during our short skin through low angle trees. Overall a great day for learning. </p>

Terrain Ridden

Dense trees, Mellow slopes.

Terrain Avoided

Alpine slopes, Convex slopes, Open trees, Steep slopes.

Avalanche Conditions

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

Whumpfing or drum-like sounds or shooting cracks.

Snow Conditions

Heavy.

Weather Conditions

Sunny, Warm.