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Observation: Amazon Basin

Observation Date
12/24/2013
Observer Name
Brodhead, Brodhead, and Glenn
Region
Logan » Amazon Basin
Location Name or Route
South Amazon Basin - Logan
Weather
Sky
Clear
Weather Comments
Wintery conditions in the morning, then cleared up by 10ish.
Snow Characteristics
Snow Characteristics Comments
Strong on weak. Slow snow made for unimpressive skiing conditions. Where we were at, you'd have to ski above 35deg for it to be worthwhile.
Red Flags
Red Flags
Heavy Snowfall
Wind Loading
Cracking
Collapsing
Poor Snowpack Structure
Red Flags Comments
We observed widespread cracking, collapsing, and whoomphing. Cracks shot out 100+ feet from our skin track in multiple directions. We did not observe the zipper crust or m/f crust that have been observed elsewhere. Lots of variability in the Logan snowpack right now.
Avalanche Problem #1
Problem
Persistent Weak Layer
Trend
Decreasing Danger
Problem #1 Comments
We observed much evidence of drifting, but we didn't observe any drifting taking place. I imagine exposed slopes tell a different story.
Avalanche Problem #2
Problem
New Snow
Trend
Same
Problem #2 Comments
Facets are still there, and the new snow is also starting to rot as well.
Comments
The results of an ECT.
Video
Informal hand pits failed upon isolation.
Video
Today's Observed Danger Rating
Considerable
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
Considerable