Front Range
SnowpackIan Fowler · Jan 31, 2023 · Front Range
Weather
Strong westerly and southwesterly winds were transporting a lot of snow. Skies were clear, and temperatures were in the teens.
Snowpack
Ski penetration was around 40 to 50cm when breaking trail in untracked areas. The snow was thickening significantly and was developing a thin wind skin. Test slopes showed only localized cracking in steep terrain, and a cornice drop only triggered a loose dry avalanche. In steep terrain, the storm snow was well-bonded and was settling consistently. A wind slab will likely develop with the intense wind.