Detailed Observation

Date2021-11-14
LocationHaines
ObserverJeff Moskowitz
AvalancheN

General Observations

Lutak Zone: A foot of fresh new snow from Friday Nov. 12 was over the old snow and a melt-freeze crust. Light wind effect above 2000′ made for denser surface conditions. Dug a pit on a southeast aspect at 2900′ (22F light north wind 3/8 skies) with a total snow depth of 50cm. Easy test results from an extended column test (ECTP) stability test down 40cm below the compacted surface wind slab. Failed on facets around the melt-freeze crust.

Variable conditions overall at this aspect and elevation. Since the snowpack is so shallow, the cold outside temperatures make faceting, or the weakening of snow grains around a melt-freeze crust more likely.

***Marginal conditions at mid-elevations. Careful of buried rocks, trees and other hazards that could cause injuries.****

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Observed Avalanche Activity