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Professional Observation

Basic Information

Observation Details

Observation Date:
April 8, 2023
Submitted:
April 8, 2023
Observer:
PAC - George Halcom
Zone or Region:
Secesh Summit Area
Location:
Trail Lake, Deep Lake, and Summit Lake

Signs of Unstable Snow

Recent Avalanches? 
Yes
Cracking? 
None Experienced
Collapsing? 
None Experienced
Most recent activity was on solar aspects that was small D1-D1.5...Observed older crowns on North aspects from recent natural cycle barely visible.

Snow Stability

Stability Rating: 
Good
Confidence in Rating: 
Moderate
Stability Trend: 
Worsening

Bottom Line

Northen aspects showed good stability and also lacked propagation in an extended column. Lower elevations below 6,000 feet saw rain on snow. Crusts that formed on solar aspects are breaking down and should allow future meltwater to percolate through the snowpack.

Media

No propigation on this (ECT) extended column test where we were testing the strength of 3 solar crusts that formed March 20, 23, & 28th. Kevin had to pry with his shovel.
Friday, North of McCall, we witnessed strong South winds loading the North aspects where massive cornices have grown.
Almost ten feet here at 8,000' on this WSW aspect where solar crusts are visible in the snowpack
Small block compression tests showed the weak layers around 3 crusts in the upper snowpack that were lacking energy to propagate across a larger block (ECT).
Wet loose, point releases on this South aspect from warm temperatures...an increasing trend we will see this week with temps soaring to over 50F Monday at 7,600 feet.
Friday, North of McCall, we witnessed strong South winds loading the North aspects where massive cornices have grown.

Advanced Information

Weather Summary

Cloud Cover:
Obscured
Wind:
Moderate , S

Winds and new snow Friday were observed loading Northern aspects. Snow for transport was minimal, yet new snow was coming in with moderate wind. Rain was observed below 6,000 feet. We felt the warm temps and had to strip layers at times when active.

Avalanche Observations

Natural Loose wet on SW above trail Lake that was D-1 to D2 from recent warm temps an solar in the last 24-48 hours

Snowpack Observations

We did not get propagation in an extended column test on weak layers or the 3 recent crusts that formed on solar aspects that are clearly visible when opening up a test pit.

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