Cornice ridge - Surface hoar problem

<p>We went up cornice ridge, lots of wind up on the ridge (30-40 km/h and more). A lot of snow transportation on the North and East slopes. Dug a profile below the east ridge and found the 25th surface hoar (size 6 to 18 mm) down 80 cm. We had ECTN 8 down 30cm and ECTP 24 down 80cm on that SH layer, on a 33 deg. slope. We saw numerous size 1-2 slab avalanches around cornice and buzz ridge. visibility was poor so we stayed in more sheltered area and mellow slopes. Main concern was the 30cm windslab stepping down to that SH layer, which could produce large avalanches </p>

Terrain Ridden

Mellow slopes, Dense trees.

Terrain Avoided

Alpine slopes, Steep slopes, Open trees.

Avalanche Conditions

Slab avalanches today or yesterday.

Whumpfing or drum-like sounds or shooting cracks.

Snow Conditions

Powder.

Weather Conditions

Stormy.