Sheep Creek (Palisades)

Active weather in the AM with heavy snowfall and moderate, gusty SW wind. Rain in the valley turned to snow around 6,500' at rates of 1"/hour. Snowfall ceased around 13:00 leaving overcast skies. Observed numerous natural (D1 or less) avalanches that failed on a widespread melt freeze crust buried 3/23. These avalanches occured on W-S-E aspects from 8500-9500'. All these avalanches were around 20cm (8") deep propagating up to 50' cross slope and down slope. Obvious sign that this crust interface was reactive. Saw active wind transport with plumes off ridgelines in the upper elevations. Since 3/21 the area has recieved 40cm (16") of snow sitting above an even harder and stouter crust. Recent snow was right side up in sheltered terrain. 

Plenty of powder and good riding to be found out there folks. Just remember that winter is in full effect and the recent snow is reactive. Even though the natural avalanches were small, larger human triggered avalanches are certainly possible up to 2 feet deep in wind loaded terrain (see attached photo of wind loaded terrain).  

*Sheep Creek Road is melted to the first cattle guard with sparse snow coverage up to the junction of Sawmill where coverage significantly improves. 

Widespread, small avalanches activity and cracking observed above 9000' on wind affected snow surfaces.

Natural avalanches were failing on the crust buried 20cm deep on 3/23. Performed quick hand shears on adjacent slopes which failed easily. Slab above the crust was still unconsolidated and low density. Did not find the 3/23 crust on a ENE aspect at 8900' so we performed an ECT to check the reactivity of the harder crust buried 3/21. Did not find any propagation on this layer as the slab lacked firm, cohesive quality. The 3/21 crust was buried 40cm and breakable on northerly aspects but very stout and thick on southerly aspects. 

Average total snow depth at 9000' was 260-300cm.