Quick report
- Collapsing
- widespread
Numerous collapses were observed transitioning from previously wind-affected terrain to sheltered terrain at mid-elevations. Most collapses weren't rumbling, but the snowpack was talkative today. Preserved surface hoar was identified approximately 35 cm (14 inches) below the surface, capped by a soft slab on sheltered, north-facing slopes.
Weather
- Cloud Cover
- obscured
- Recent Snowfall
- 15-18 cm
S1 to S2 rates for most of afternoon. The first part of the storm seemed to clear out on our exit around 1630.
Snowpack
A buried surface hoar layer was observed approximately 35 cm (14 inches) below the snow surface. This layer produced low propagation scores in extended column tests (ECTP4,6). Audible collapses were noted on this layer during the ascent of the slope. A rime crust was identified roughly 5 cm ( 2 inches) above the surface hoar, but no failures were observed on this crust during testing. Small column tests indicated a density and grain type change at the new/old snow interface approximately 15 cm from the surface. The new snow was low density and a perfect for curving turns.