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Professional Observation

       

Basic Information

Observation Details

Observation Date:
December 24, 2022
Submitted:
December 24, 2022
Observer:
Geoff Unger | Key Observer
Zone or Region:
Mammoth Lakes
Location:
Upper TJ Bowl Approach

Signs of Unstable Snow

Recent Avalanches? 
None Observed
Cracking? 
None Experienced
Collapsing? 
None Experienced

Snow Stability

Stability Rating: 
Good
Confidence in Rating: 
High
Stability Trend: 
Improving

Media

Advanced Information

Weather Summary

A mild and pleasant day to be in the backcountry today.  Calm winds for most of the day and in and out thin cloud up high.

Field Weather Observation

Location

Back 9

Time

1350

Elevation

9360

Aspect

N

Sky

CLR

Tair/Tsurf/T20

6.0

Precipitation Type/Rate

NO

Wind

C

Blow Snow

None

Surface Form/Size

MF

HST

0

HS

126

Pen Boot/Pen Ski

20/10

Comments

Moist snow on surface

Snowpack Observations

Mild to warm temperatures have been working to slowly stabilize our snowpack while at the same time playing with surface conditions.  Both of these things are critical to consider as we expect new snowfall in the forecast post Christmas storm.  What is the new snow going to land on? Will the basal facets continue to be an issue?  The jury is still out and that is why we should continue to be vigilant and monitor conditions while we are out in the field.  Signs of instability have gone away, but the snowpack structure is still weak.

Terrain Use

To be honest, a lot more terrain is ‘open’ to us right now.  However, the best skiing continues to be in sheltered areas.  Adventurous skiing elsewhere on slidable surfaces also may harbor our lingering persistent slab avalanche problem.  It’s early season and I am personally happy to be out on the skin track.  Happy Holidays everyone!

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