Northern San Juan
AvalancheJeff Davis · Jan 26, 2019 · Northern San Juan
Weather
Blue Bird San Juan day with strong winds, specifically in the alpine. Temperatures mild and we basked in the sunshine.
Snowpack
Wind-loading continued near and above treeline. Most of the flagging was observed off high mountain peaks, but the strength of the wind increased at lower elevations in the afternoon. The snowpack in general continues to ease, but additional loading leaves uncertainty in the alpine. No cracking or collapsing observed. Snowpack tests on a southwest slope at 11,660' showed hard, but propagating results. The mid-pack in the pit dug showed strength, but weak layers continue to be within a meter of the surface.
Avalanche
Evidence of the widespread January 18th/19th cycle in your face. Multiple avalanches observed near and above treeline on all aspects. I also received a text in the afternoon of what appears to be some fresh natural activity on Chicago Peak.