Detailed Observation

Date2021-01-21
LocationHaines
ObserverJeff Moskowitz
AvalancheN

General Observations

Lutak Zone: From the 7-mile saddle trailhead, snow line was at 1000′ then crusty and punchy until 1,500′. Dug a pit at 2200′ and found MLK day crust down 35cm ECTN results. There is so much new snow, blown around. Depending on the redistribution some slopes are actually steeper, while others are less steep.  Cornices have formed on west aspects. We have a new base to think about with any future load as layers build at the present surface.

  • Where could a slab build on top of the new underlying terrain?
  • Are there new consequences with the potential of a slide?

On the north side at 2600′ found the MLK day crust down 45cm, softer snow, drifts and wind slab near ridgeline. Experienced deep half-second whumphing at 2500′ near a creek & drainage. My guess it was new years SH layer collapsing. The snowpack is still settling and adjusting. Small surface hoar <1mm below treeline.

Uploaded Images

Weather Observations

Snowpack Observations

Snowpack Observations:

  • 2200'/SW-aspect/Clear with fog 500-1500'/Calm/30F warmer in the sun
    • HS 180cm &  <1mm surface hoar 
    • ECTN28N down 35cm below MLK day crust
  • 3200'/E-aspect/Clear/Light N wind/25F
    • HS 215cm at the ridge
    • Rime & wind scoured
  • 2600'/N-aspect/Clear/Calm/22F
    • HS 300cm & <1m surface hoar 
    • Found MLK day crust down 45cm

Observed Avalanche Activity

Other Remarks

Avalanche Observations:

  • N-aspect 6000' with early morning light noticed a crown line on Mount Emmerich 500ft wide D3.
  • SE-aspect 3200' an old pocket crown line was visible at 3200' about 100' wide D2
  • W-aspect 3200' old loose avalanche debris on 3920' <D2
  • NW-aspect 2800' a re-filled old crown line at convexity 200' wide D2