Metal Dome via Brandywine

Zack Wentz, Saturday 8th February, 2025 10:38PM

<p>Observed shooting cracks in isolated wind-loaded pockets at treeline on SW-SE aspects. Released a small sz1 wind slab at approx. 1600m that fractured at the crown (tensile fracture), but did not run due to friction on the basal sliding plane. Isolated wind slabs forming on SW-SE aspects due to reverse loading from outflow winds. Though not much of a problem the day we were skiing, this could be a concern later on throughout the year.</p>

Weather Report

<p>Highly wind-affected on all aspects. Strong outflow winds created reverse-loading on SW-SE aspects at treeline. Winds were strong above treeline, and moderate below treeline. Clear all day with great visibility throughout. Temps ranged from -5 at the car to -13 at our high point (right at the top of the glacier).</p>

Terrain Ridden

Sunny slopes, Open trees.

Terrain Avoided

Alpine slopes.

Avalanche Conditions

Whumpfing or drum-like sounds or shooting cracks.

Snow Conditions

Hard, Wind affected, Powder.

Weather Conditions

Cold, Sunny.

Location: 50.10577000 -123.18300000