Quick report

Virginia Lakes

Paul BachEastside Region
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Quick report

Today there was firm snow at the beginning of our tour at 0830. By noon softer conditions in the melt-freeze crust allowed for boot penetration of 1-2" and was supportive of ski travel. No signs of instability or wet loose avalanche were observed. No new snow was present while the relative stillness is shifting to breezy conditions with a significant warming trend. Ascending a snow covered waterfall at approximately 9,500' a thin snow bridge collapsed while on foot. Similar non supportive snow bridge collapsing was observed over other small creeks and streams. Blue ice on lakes and open water along shore are reminders to use caution crossing lakes as temperatures rise. Solar slopes above Frog Lake at approximately 11,500' had a thin corn snow layer with noticeably warmer surface conditions in areas sheltered from the wind. We took a fairly conservative approach today avoiding higher windy ridges and sticking to south facing slopes with softer snow conditions. Breezy winds from the SW were gusting between 15-25 mph today. Overall conditions are stable and springlike.