Quick report
- Red Flags
- Recent Avalanches, Rapid Warming, Poor Snowpack Structure
- Red Flags Comment
- <p>The snowpack structure and recent avalanche activity were the two most significant red flags observed during the day. No cracking or collapsing was observed, but I believe this was mainly due to the damp/crusty nature of the area we traveled. </p>
The Mill Creek Canyon zone was significantly impacted by warm temperatures and overnight rainfall, resulting in a rain/rime crust extending up to nearly 9,000'. Above 8,000', dry snow persists, but is now capped by a firm crust and rain layer, indicating a poor snowpack structure. The combination of warm temperatures, a damp snow surface, and cooler incoming temperatures will likely lock up some of the terrain below 8,600' However, the approaching storm could bring an additional 1–1.25" of water and winds up to 85 mph, potentially redistributing snow on top of this firm layer, creating sensitive wind drifts and overloading areas above 8,900' that aren't capped by the rain. I personally would still avoid all mid- and upper-elevation avalanche terrain, especially in areas that I know the PWL exists. Multiple natural avalanches observed, unsure of timing. One on the ridge above In Between and Gary's Gully, Northeast aspect near 9,200'. Another in the Icebox above Main Porter Fork, North aspect near 9,400'.
Very Damp snow surface below 8000'.
Damp snow surface becoming a more notable layer/crust instead of full saturation. Still damp and soft. 7300'.
Natural Avalanche on ridge above the In Betwee and Gary's Gully on Northeast Aspect near 9200
Another natural in the Icebox above Main Porter Fork on a North aspect near 9400'.
Snowpack
The snow surface varied in degrees of wetness. From the trailhead, the Porter Fork road was saturated, with pooling water on the trail and the snowpack remaining damp. The surface remained generally soft and damp up to 7900-8000'. Above 8000', the snow surface transitioned to a firm rain-rime crust, with cold, dry snow underneath. This crust persisted up to 8600-8800'.'.