Quick report
- Cracking
- isolated
With the well documented persistent slab problem, we did not aim to dig a formalized snowpit today since that would not affect our terrain choices. We did want to determine distribution and sensitivity of windslabs, and handshears seemed to be the best tool. We found them around 20cm/8” thick on SW-NW slopes, but none failed on isolation. With cracking observed and ski supportable hardslab, we were glad not to be on any leeward avalanche terrain.
Weather
- Air Temp
- 15
- Cloud Cover
- overcast
- Wind Loading
- previous
- Recent Snowfall
- 0
- Snow Avail For Transport
- small smounts
Overcast morning led to a front moving in from the west and the cloud ceiling dropping. Snow up to S1 started around 1:00 and a notable temp increase. Winds were calm, then light north.
Snowpack
Widespread wind effect and tree blowdown, mostly northerly winds judging from which sides of ridges were scoured or loaded. Need to check snotels from Thursday, but they must have been strong at least. Windslabs consistently 15-20cm thick and F+ to 4F hardness. Did not find good test slopes to test sensitivity on. Boot penetration was 60cm, showing settlement from previous days.
Avalanche
- Size
- D1 R1
- Type
- L
- Aspect
- NW
- Trigger
- N
- Elevation
- 7900 ft
In the AM we had good visibility for crown hunting. We were disappointed, finding only vertical lines on Palisade (squaw) peak that were probably cross loaded mid slope cornices. And 2 loose dries on steep northerlies. Other crowns probably filled in by wind, unknown.