Old Ski Bowl - Green Butte Ridge

Today, the aftermath of a natural avalanche cycle was observed. Of the ten avalanches observed, they all occurred above treeline on east and south aspects beneath wind catchment features and resulted from wind loading. One slide was observed on a southwest aspect due to cross-loading. The avalanches on Powder Bowl/Sun Bowl, Casaval Ridge, and Green Butte were the largest. Estimated crown depths ranged from 1-5 feet. This cycle most likely happened over the last 72 hours. During the days of 01.12–01.13.

Surface conditions above treeline are tough. The wrath of the wind has scoured many slopes down to hard and slick ice. Slide for life conditions are present. Soft drifted snow and wind board prevail over most of the high elevation landscape. Many previously buried rocks are now exposed in the Old Ski Bowl.  

Avalanche cycle within the past 72 hours.

Today's rising temperatures and windows of sunshine have begun to soften the snow. By later in the day, surfaces were penetrable up to 30 cm. Roller balls and dripping trees were seen and heard.  

Variable wind effected surfaces exist above treeline. The worst being a surface ice that is bulletproof and deadly slick. This was observed on mostly west and south aspects. Northerly aspects were the only observed area not presenting this surface. Leeward aspects still harbor soft to hard wind drifted snow in specific spots. Windward aspects are scoured, with sastrugi and cornices along ridgelines. Previously buried rocks are now exposed in the upper elevations of the Old Ski Bowl.  

Near and below treeline, the snowpack has been more sheltered and wind effected surfaces are fewer.