Public Observation

Observation Details

Signs of Unstable Snow

Observations

Went for a reconnaissance run to check out the damage. Dug an ECT and CT at 7800' on a north slope. Total depth 200 cm. New snow 32 cm of high density "cement" over the older dry snow at this elevation.
ECTx I could not find any reactive layers.
CT test showed a little more nuance, depths are from the surface:
CT16 at 25 cm irregular to no shear (this was new snow on an old surface layer)
CT22 at 52 cm rough shear
Below 7000' there is a very unflattering breakable to supportable crust. The crust fades away about 7500. At that elevation the skiing was ok, unless there are any trees nearby or above you in which case there are roller balls, chunder, and large chunks of rime where trees have dumped their winter coat. Ski crampons recommended below 7000, but they will only provide variable bite as the crust varies from thin to stout over short distances.
There were some old isolated wet slides on steep terrain but things seemed to be locked up.