Lost Lakes

A healthy foot of new, low density snow was observed in this area today, with widespread surface hoar on the surface. Multiple test slopes did not produce results, but every formal snowpack test we did today indicated instability both above and below a thin crust under the new snow. Weak layers were a facet/surface hoar layer above the crust, and a facet layer below it. The mid-Dec rain crust was very firm and supportable, 1.5-2ft down from the surface.

The mid-December rain crust was very firm and supportable 1.5-2ft from the surface. A thin crust was observed 1-1.5ft from the surface, with facets below it and a facet/surface hoar layer above it.  Four different test profile locations indicated instability both above and below the thin crust. Widespread surface hoar at the surface, all the way to ridgetops and even under tree cover.