Professional Observation
Basic Information
Observation Details
Observation Date:
February 3, 2023 - February 4, 2023Submitted:
February 3, 2023Observer:
Barbara Wanner | Key ObserverZone or Region:
Lee ViningLocation:
Mount Downs: Widespread blowing snowSigns of Unstable Snow
Recent Avalanches?
None ObservedCracking?
None ExperiencedCollapsing?
None ExperiencedSnow Stability
Stability Rating:
GoodConfidence in Rating:
HighStability Trend:
WorseningKey Points
- Above freezing temps made for enjoyable touring when sheltered from the wind.
- Sky cover started at FEW and increased to BKN around mid day. Then cleared up to FEW again.
- Winds were blowing form the SW at a steady Moderate speed with gusts to Strong every couple of minutes.
- Widespread snow transport visible where we were travelling BTL in areas exposed to the wind. Mostly cross-loading from the SW, rolling and saltation. AM and PM. Big snow banners visible off the ridge of Mt. Wood and other ridge top locations around 1130. Less in the afternoon.
- I started seeing very small new wind slabs forming in the lee of rollovers and ridge features. They were reactive but only about the size of a large dinner plate.
- The old snow surface consists of recrystallized snow grains. So, although the wind can move this cohesion-less snow around, it will not bond well when piled up in leeward locations.
Our tracks blew in after 30 minutes.
Our tracks blew in after 30 minutes.
