Professional Observation
Basic Information
Observation Details
Observation Date:
January 21, 2023 - January 21, 2023Submitted:
January 21, 2023Observer:
ProZone or Region:
Lick Creek AreaLocation:
No Complaints Knob at 7450' above Lick Creek Yurts, E and WSW aspectsSigns of Unstable Snow
Recent Avalanches?
YesCracking?
None ExperiencedCollapsing?
None Experienced
Observed 5+ recent loose dry D1 avalanches in steep (>40 degree) west-face rocky terrain from ridge above North Corner.
Snowpack tests from 2 pits in area identified moderate to hard results (CTN, CT20, CT17, CTM x3; all SP-RP) on a new NSF layer that developed and was buried ~30cm down under new snow that fell in area 1/18-1/19. Only 1 column test had results (CT28; RP) on the layer of previous concern down 50cm.
Snowpack tests from 2 pits in area identified moderate to hard results (CTN, CT20, CT17, CTM x3; all SP-RP) on a new NSF layer that developed and was buried ~30cm down under new snow that fell in area 1/18-1/19. Only 1 column test had results (CT28; RP) on the layer of previous concern down 50cm.
Snow Stability
Stability Rating:
FairConfidence in Rating:
ModerateStability Trend:
SteadyBottom Line
Observed higher than forecasted SW winds ~10-15mph with moderate gusts that increased in the afternoon, especially at elevations above 7000'. Drifting snow observed at ~1600 on ridge of South Rain. Stayed clear all day (no increasing cloud cover as forecasted). Large surface hoar crystals observed in am on all aspects above 6000'. Sun and wind knocked it down in exposed areas by afternoon, but suspect it may have been preserved in sheltered and shaded areas.
Media
