Observation: Gad Valley

Excellent skiing remains on upper elevation northerly slopes above 10kft, while sun and greenhousing have dramatically affected the snow quality on lower elevation slopes. All aspects are holding depth reasonably well above 10k while substantial snow loss since early October accumulation is evident on solar aspects below. Greatest concern in a NNW/10200ft pit is a layer of grains beginning to facet below a thin crust. We observed a failure without propagation (ECTN27) on this layer in our pit. The snowpack above it remains largely loose and unconsolidated. This layer may awaken with a stronger slab above it and/or additional water weight from the next storm, especially if dry conditions persist and the problem continues to worsen. The lower half of the snowpack continues to appear reasonably strong and depths of approx 100cm are impressive given we are just entering the second half of November.

Very variable surface conditions from aspect to aspect, with most noticeable impacts resulting from solar/wind damage and wind slab development. Winds were moderate throughout the day and transport of snow was evident in all but the most sheltered areas.