Southern San Juan
AvalancheMark Mueller · Jan 30, 2020 · Southern San Juan
Weather
Mostly clear skies, temps in the teens along the Divide and 30s at Pass level. Gusty northwest winds sprang up mid day. About 2" of new snow over the last few days.
Snowpack
Traveled on nearly all aspects along the Continental Divide, near and below treeline with no signs of instability. Widespread surface hoar and near surface facets on the snow surface. Between the lack of snow recently, strong winds from both the southwest and northeast, along with some warm temperatures the snow surface is a mixed bag- decent settled powder, melt-freeze, crust (supportable and breakable), wind crusts, and solid windpack. Solid snowpack underneath.
Avalanche
No recent observed avalanche activity outside of some harmless sluffing.