Sawatch

Avalanche

Rodney Ley · Feb 19, 2023 · Sawatch

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Weather

Monarch Pass west side from 10,600’ to 11,200’, mostly west facing. Overcast with strong, swirling winds at all elevations. Gusts to 50 mph, no snow transport except at near surface level in open areas. No precipitation.

Snowpack

Noted HS 130cm in open areas to 160 cm at 11,200’. All snow surfaces scoured to one degree or another. Minor sun crust noted on some (but not all) SW aspects. Skiing was okay with 20-40cm of thick snow in the trees. No collapse, whomping or cracks.

Avalanche

None seen on any aspect throughout the Monarch Pass area both east and west sides.