Quick report
New snow quality changed since yesterday becoming denser and more supportable. Recent snow has settled to around 60cm (24"). Moderate westerly wind with strong gusts were sustained during the day as we observed active transport and loading on leeward slopes. Wind loaded terrain was the most concerning, as well as any density changes within the recent storm interfaces. No recent avalanches, cracking, or collapsing observed. Visibility was obscured most of the day, but we did not see any activity on steep NE terrain off Taylor's SE ridge except some light sluffing.
The storm over the last 5 days has brought significant snowfall with limited visibility. Avalanche activity on of the persistent weak layer (PWL) has been uncertain and difficult to track. The weak layers buried 2/4-2/6 remain guilty until proven innocent. We dug two snowpits in the middle and upper elevation to gain more understanding of the weak layers of concern creating the persistent slab problem (See Snowpack section).
Snowpack
Main objective was to look at the new snow and persistent weak layers (PWL) including near surface facets buried 2/6 and facet/crust combination buried 2/4. These layers are buried around 80 cm (32") below the snow surface. The overlying slab is still soft (F-4F hardness).
8600' SE aspect HS: 203cm ECTX No propagation on PWLs or density changes.
9400 SE aspect HS: 195cm ECTP19 failed on 1mm facets between two crusts.
We were surprised to find propagation on the PWL. Despite the large loading event, these layers appear reactive in certain locations and worth tracking still. Let us know what you find if you're out there digging. The more data the better.