Professional Observation

Observation Details

Signs of Unstable Snow

Snow Stability

Key Points

Did a quick afternoon tour in the Sherwins today, enjoying downright springlike temps.

TAir at Mill City 1230 = 2c / Dry surface snow on northerlies, moistening in the upper 5cm on flat and solar tilting panels.

TAir at Sherwin Ridge (9990′) 1315 =1c / Stripped ridge lines from a battle between SW and NE winds over the past few days, firm entrances to N facing runs but quickly softened. Very little activity from last storm cycle evident – a couple small >size 1 slabs pulled out below steep entrances to Skiers right side of Main Avy Path and Hose, but was muted from N winds. HST settling rapidly with warming temps, though no slab detected at TL or BTL elevations. No solar/temperature effect on N facing terrain noted regardless of slope angle.

Skin tracks are, even by Sherwins standards, ridiculously steep. Many may wish to use ski crampons or make lots of amendments.