After the storm...

Went to check out the Shames backcountry, to look for evidence of natural/recent activity. Breakable crust and lousy ski quality below 900m. Good skiing where there was no wind effect in the alpine down to ~1000m. Evidence of a major cycle during the storm with many fracture lines already drifted in or covered. More recent natural activity mostly localized to the upper treeline band, especially in cross-loaded features. Storm snow settling rapidly but foot pen was still 80cm + (ski pen 30cms). Area of most concern is that upper treeline band where surface hoar (from Jan 23?) may still be preserved and reactive.

Wind (mod) with some snow transport only at ridge crest. Light to calm lower down.

Hand shear gave a hard, non - planar break.