Quick report
- Collapsing
- widespread
We encountered large, deep collapses on previously untouched, easterly-facing slopes. These observations were sufficient to influence our decision to avoid avalanche terrain. Upon further investigation, we determined that the collapses were occurring on a faceted layer sandwiched between two crusts, approximately 57 cm (23 inches) below the surface. We heard numerous, deep sounding collapses.
Weather
- Cloud Cover
- obscured
- Recent Snowfall
- ~10 cm (0700-1230)
- Snow Avail For Transport
- large amounts
S1 from 0700-1000 before a brief lull. Snow turned on again with S2-3 rates until we left around 1230.
Snowpack
The slab above the 12/13 crust measures over 57 cm in thickness and exhibits hardness ranging from fist to four fingers. The primary layer of concern is a ~5 cm thick faceted snow layer situated between the 12/13 crust and the 12/7 crust. In my initial large-column test, I was unable to achieve propagation within this layer. However, shortly after, my partner caused a slope collapse. I conducted a second large-column test, during which propagation occurred after 18 taps (ECTP18). Additionally, the 12/27 interface began to show signs of crossing the column after 5 taps but did not fully propagate until I manually removed the block.