Gunnison

Avalanche

Ian HAVLICK · Jan 28, 2018 · Gunnison

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Weather

Partly cloudy, some high peaks had lingering stratus. Moderate NW winds at all elevations. Temps were generally cold but very strong solar radiation warmed day.

Snowpack

Biggest take away from field day was sneaky and steady W-NW winds at all elevations drifting skin track quickly, and changing snow surfaces to moderate ripple and wind crusts/slabs. No signs of instability while traveling. Generally supportable with ski pen 10-20cm.

Avalanche

Did observe one relatively recent D2 avalanche in Avy 1 glades confined to steeper, shadier side of convex slope. E facing, BTL.