Public Observation

Observation Details

Observations

Started skinning up the Lundy Road in thick Poconip. ( Mono Basin Valley Fog ) It was calm as long as we were in the Poconip. As soon as we came out into the sun at the top of the Moraines at 8200 ft. we were greeted by moderate winds blowing down canyon from the west. Winds were mostly moderate with the occasional strong gust. A considerable amount of snow was being transported across the slopes as we ascended. Up at ridge top elevation, size-able snow banners were visible. The biggest one coming off No-Name Peak/ South Peak. The snow surface was highly textured from the winds that at times came from every direction on the compass rose. Ski pen was between 5 and 20 cm as we broke trail. As we approached a ridge at 9270 ft. I expected the snow to stiffen in the leeward deposition zone. I was surprised to see that although there was in some places a 5cm 4F- hard wind skin forming, the snow was mostly unconsolidated. A shovel tilt test in that location did not result in a nice windslab popping off but in cold, light and unconsolidated snow sliding off my block. HS was between 160 cm and 200 cm. Below the 30 cm newly wind deposited snow I found P hard old wind deposited snow.
Ski quality on these north facing slopes was smooth and light, slightly wind compressed snow up higher and light, undisturbed snow below 8200 ft.
I did not see any signs of instability where I travelled today.

Signs of Unstable Snow