Thar S Ridge

Went for an exploratory trip up Thar S ridge. Some snowpack observations: 1700m, SW slope, ~30 degrees Height of snow (HS): 130-150cm Extended Column Test: Partial Propagation (3/4 length of block) at 7 taps down 20cm (ECT7PP down 20). The lower weak layer down ~50 cm was stubborn and we couldn't get it to move. Compression Test: Resistant Planar fracture across column in the easy range at tap 7. CTE7RP down 20. Both tests were pretty consistent in that they demonstratred that the upper weakness had a fairly easy fracture potential, but was still a little stubborn to propagate. Given those results, we chose to ski out from around 1700m and avoid any wind loaded slopes where propagation on that layer may pose more of a risk. Photo attached shows some steeper microterrain where we were able to get the layer to propagate even though it was in fairly sheltered terrain and not wind affected.