Professional Observation
Basic Information
Observation Details
Observation Date:
December 7, 2021Submitted:
December 7, 2021Observer:
WCMAC - Ryan Sorenson and Jeff CartyZone or Region:
RattlesnakeLocation:
Sheep MountainSigns of Unstable Snow
Recent Avalanches?
None ObservedCracking?
None ExperiencedCollapsing?
None ExperiencedSnow Stability
Stability Rating:
GoodConfidence in Rating:
HighStability Trend:
Bottom Line
We went back to Sheep Mountain today to see what has changed over the last week.
• The new snow fell over bare ground below approximately 6,700 feet.
• We found 15 inches of old snow remaining at 7,000 feet, where we dug a quick pit. There are eight inches of newer snow above that.
• Early season hazards are abundant, including downed trees, barely covered rocks, and bushes.
• An ice crust, formed by freezing drizzle today, is present from 6,000 to 7,000 feet and likely higher. We'll keep an eye on this layer as it could cause issues once it gets buried.
Media
Advanced Information
Weather Summary
Cloud Cover:
OvercastTemperature:
26.5Wind:
Light , SWWe noted near-freezing temperatures at the trailhead, and snow surfaces were moist. The sky was overcast but light gray with various cloud layers; some hung lower as fog on the nearby peaks. We traveled through a few freezing drizzle showers as we made our way up to 7,000 feet. The ice lens limited the availability for snow transport, but winds were light with occasional moderate gusts out of the southwest.
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