Observation Date
2/14/2021
Observer Name
S Day C Magerl
Region
Skyline » Birch Creek » North Fork Birch Creek
Location Name or Route
South Skyline/North Birch Creek
Comments
Out for turns in snow and limited visibility off South Skyline. Dug a pit in low angle wind sheltered terrain at 8,960’, west facing. Total depth 128 cm. Sure seems like the top 52cm is from this storm. Very light on top, easily transported along the ridge by the light to moderate west wind.
Ground to 45 cm was loose granular, but seemed more damp and more cohesive than what I have been seeing from the ground layer for the past several weeks. A slight crust of 1-2 cm at 45 cm, then 1 finger 50cm to 76cm. Above that 4F transitioning to fist. Very right-side up.
Noticed no collapse or cracking. Did a few turns down short test slopes of 34 and 38 degrees, and had no sluffing, cracking or collapsing.
By far the best skiing conditions so far this year. I know there are still dragons in the cellar and wouldn’t mess around being on or under anything steep. The density today was excellent for low angle turns. Five-star, Canada quality powder.
Today's Observed Danger Rating
Considerable
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
Considerable