Detailed Observation

Date2021-11-26
LocationValdez
ObserverGareth Brown
AvalancheN

General Observations

Loveland Basin up to 4500′.    Shooting cracks- Yes, small shooting cracks were observed within the new snow in lee areas that saw wind redistribution.   Collapsing- No.     Avalanches- No.  Found 10 cms of dry, new snow at the highway overlying firm wind affected snow.  New snow became deeper with elevation gain and was 30 cms (12 inches)  deep above 4000′ in protected areas.  Below 4000′ in areas exposed to wind found 2mm developed near surface facets down 20 cms, below a 1 Finger hard wind slab.  Multiple hand shear tests failed upon isolation at this layer.  Pit results at ~4500′ East aspect produced ECTX, with a snowpack height of 170cms.

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Weather Observations

Observed Avalanche Activity