General Observations

3/29 Iguana Backs up to 5400’/ Clear /Calm

Shooting cracks: No 

Collapsing: No

Avalanches: Yes several D2s observed across the valley on Three Pigs, south aspects MP 38-39.  Began as wet loose with some areas stepping down and causing slab avalanches.

At low elevation, found dry-moist snow at the surface that became dry with elevation gain.  Surface snow had no wind affect with moderate results on hand shear tests on the way up.  At 3800’ pit results produced ECTN26 down 15 cms at new/old interface and ECTP30+ upon overload down 50cms (3/22 BSH).  PST END (37/100) down 50 cms 3/22 BSH.  Buried surface hoar was laid over  2-6mm and rounding, Once failure was initiated slab above moved with energy and had a quality 1 shear.

W/NW ramps were beginning to see a lot of roller ball activity from solar cliffs above during the heat of the day, although no gauging of the snowpack observed.

 

Marker on map shows location of snow pit