What's With all the Whumpfing?

<p>We experienced lots of whumpfing as the weak layer of sugary "facetted" snow from earlier in the winter was failing under our weight today as we ski toured up the ridge above the Nordstrom cutblocks. We saw signs of recent very large slab avalanches in the alpine and treeline, mostly on north and east slopes sliding on what we suspect was this same layer. There's still not enough snow to make for good skiing or good snowmobiling. The snowpack depth varies, but is generally only around 45cm at 2000m, and it's very easy to hit stumps and rocks. </p>

Avalanche Conditions

Slab avalanches today or yesterday.

Whumpfing or drum-like sounds or shooting cracks.

Weather Conditions

Cold, Sunny.