Observation: Abajos

Observation Date
1/27/2020
Observer Name
Kevin Dressel
Region
Abajos
Location Name or Route
Near old ski area
Weather
Sky
Broken
Precipitation
Light Snowfall
Wind Direction
Northwest
Wind Speed
Strong
Weather Comments
Very strong wind from the NW, even at lower elevation at the trailhead. Mountains were socked in until about 9am. After that the sky was broken with brief views of other terrain.
Snow Characteristics
New Snow Depth
6"
New Snow Density
Medium
Snow Surface Conditions
Powder
Wind Crust
Snow Characteristics Comments
About 6" new at mid and upper elevations in sheltered north facing trees.
Red Flags
Red Flags
Wind Loading
Red Flags Comments
Strong winds from the NW were transporting a significant amount of snow.
Comments
Other than the strong wind loading snow onto leeward slopes the new snow seemed to be bonding well to the old snow surface in sheltered areas even though it looked to have some surface faceting or recrystalized snow. With the fast rate of snowfall there was a slight instabiltiy within the new snow. I stayed out of North Creek today to avoid crossing the big avalanche paths and skied in low angle sheltered trees
Video
Today's Observed Danger Rating
Moderate
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
Moderate