Quick report
- Red Flags
- Recent Avalanches, Collapsing, Poor Snowpack Structure
- Red Flags Comment
- <p>Widespread collapsing observed on N, SE, SW, and W aspects between 9200 and 9900. Crust facet sandwiches observed on southerly aspects. Extremely hollow/weak structure noted anywhere from 60 cm to 110 cm down, as well as basal facets in the highest elevation shady zones. Multiple natural and explosive triggered avalanches observed on a variety of aspects and elevations. </p>
Snowpack
- Instability Comment
- <p>See above for Persistent Slab descriptors observed. Additional weight and loading over the next 24 hours may be enough to bring on a widespread avalanche cycle on all aspects at mid and upper elevations. Very dangerous snow pack structure in place. There was no significant loading occurring during the daytime hours, and as a result natural avalanches did not appear to be possible; yet due to the overwhelming and widespread nature of the PWL's in place, Considerable Danger appeared to be the danger rating in the zones traveled. With the potential for a quick 1.5 to 2 inches of water, and up to 2 feet of snow over the next 24 hours, it appears that the danger rating will rise to High by late afternoon and into the evening hours on Monday. </p> <p>Old wind slabs were observed around treeline, and most appeared stubborn and unreactive. Forecast for increasing/moderate to strong S veering to W, and then NW winds most likely will escalate the Wind Slab Problem considerably, as there is ample snow available for transport. As a result Wind Slabs may be building on a variety of aspects and terrain features at mid and upper elevations. Any significant loading from these winds will also contribute to the potential for avalanches stepping down into the multitude of buried faceted layers previously described. </p>
Superb riding on moderate to low angle terrain in settled storm powder with the southerly aspects probably riding as well as memory can serve. Cover in the Windy Peak Zone appears to be well above average for this time of year. Upper elevation wind exposed terrain had some scouring and damage, yet the majority of the terrain was holding excellent buoyant/surfy riding conditions.