December 11

Spruces to Reynolds continuing to Wilson Peak and out Millcreek

Elevations, slope angles and aspects

6200-10k, angles approaching 40°, all aspects

Snow conditions

There was 3-8", settled, from the recent storm, over a variable, mostly crusted base. Scattered wind drifting was observed at elevations above about 9000', mainly on slopes with an east facing component.. Scouring to the old rain crust was found, on opposing aspects. Daytime heating was melting sun exposed. On the shady side, the recent storm snow was starting to recrystalize. Surface hoar was observed at lower elevations, by the creek and in valley bottoms.

Had one collapse, which occurred, testing the sensitivity of wind drifting along the east facing Wilson chute ridge. No other signs of instability.

Weather

Bluebird in the morning, with some high clouds in the afternoon. Winds were light to non-existent. Mild temperatures, cooler at lower elevations and in the shade.

Snow pit

Layers

wilson-snow-layers

snow profile

wilson-glade-snow-profile

Evaluation

Settlement, time and recrystalized near surface snow have decreased the potential for instabilities. The felt collapse, combined with observed wind drifting, suggest some possibility for avalanche activity remains. Snow pit testing produced an easy shear, just above the old rain crust, adding one more level of complexity to the ongoing crust-facet-crust-facet puzzle.

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December 11 journal

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