AST-1 20/2 - Fraser area

<p>AST field day in the Fraser area. Low visibility and flat light kept us low and in the trees for our study plot and companion rescue scenarios. 15cm new snow at the car in the morning and an average accumulation of 2cm/hr throughout the day- with a 30min period of S5 around 2pm. Moderate winds. The surface snow was warm and reactive and the group experienced some shooting cracks and woompfs as we traveled up. Of note we repeated CTE results with only resistant planar characteristics - in the storm snow overlying the old surface - which comprised of wind effected snow that had begun to break down during the period of extended cold temperatures. On this east facing aspect around treeline, whilst there had been some faceting of the upper pack in our specific location, we didn't find the depth or size of facets we had anticipated. This observation is localized however, as we did not move to higher elevations. Low visibility prevented us from looking at the alpine for signs of avalanches. A great group with impressive companion rescue scenarios. </p>

Terrain Ridden

Dense trees, Mellow slopes, Open trees.

Terrain Avoided

Alpine slopes, Convex slopes, Steep slopes.

Avalanche Conditions

Whumpfing or drum-like sounds or shooting cracks.

Snow Conditions

Heavy, Powder.

Weather Conditions

Cloudy, Stormy, Windy.