Public Observation

Observation Details

Signs of Unstable Snow

Observations

The PAC toured above the Lick Creek yurts with Payette Powder Guides yesterday (12/30/21). 8" of new, low-density snow was observed yesterday by mid-morning. Winds were light with moderate to strong gusts out of the S/SW. Snowfall rates throughout the day were about 0.5-1 inch an hour. The new snow was getting blown around and deposited into leeward terrain, forming drifts and large wind pillows. The wind deposited snow was on the edge of lacking slab-like characteristics, and in many terrain features, it still remained soft. We observed some shooting cracks that were isolated to wind drifts and small cornices.

Air temps remained cold throughout the day and 10F was observed around mid-day, no accounting for wind chill.

HS around 7800' on east-facing terrain was a little over 2 meters deep (6.5 feet). Ski penetrations were 25-30 cm. We skied north-facing terrain and loose dry snow was moving easily on slopes steeper than 30 degrees. This snow could easily entrain the light surface snow and travel quick enough to catch up to a skier or rider.

4" of new snow accumulated throughout the course of 5 hours yesterday. Stay aware of the avalanche problems and adjust your terrain choices accordingly.