Public Observation

Observation Details

Signs of Unstable Snow

Observations

Our tour up north aspect of mid-drainage Bass Creek revealed an initial look at the mountains since the storm ended. Tour was designed with high avalanche danger in mind, but did have two discrete zones where avalanche risk was predicted. Views of all, major south aspect avalanche paths did not reveal any natural avalanche cycle had occurred during the storm. As predicted, mid elevation exposed and open talus fields subject to down canyon winds harbored stiff slabs overlying dry, low density snow from earlier in the storm. These zones necessitated heightened caution in route selection Ascending through tree line found stable snow, lacking energy. At 8,000' ridgetop, small cornice failures gave way to both sluff and small soft slab release. These failures did not run. Similarly, storm slab breaks on switchbacks did not propagate, but were noted. Conservative planning and decision making was key to successful tour. Skied deep powder on low angle terrain.