Aspen
AvalancheMatt Huber · Apr 13, 2019 · Aspen
Weather
Snow fell during most of the trip, intense at times S2, as convective storms developed. Gusty out flow winds from these storms as well with graupel and a clap or two of thundersnow. Winds were not consistent to enough for efficient loading, although some drifting snow was seen at ridgeline in the highest elevations.
Snowpack
Several quick pits showed a winter snowpack persisting above 11,000 feet with the depth hoar moist and rounding, but no sign that water had percolated deep into the snowpack with last weeks warm-up. The snow surface was a cold and wintery 6-8 inches of fresh snow near and above treeline with minimal drifting. I did not see any reactivity in recently drifted snow where I was but would expect to see an isolated shallow windslab in very steep terrain above 12,500 feet. Near and Below treeline, the sun was only out for about five minutes, just enough time for the snow to glob onto skins and ski bases but. The snowpack on west facing slopes near and below 10,000 feet was wet and punchy in areas where the snowpack was thin.
Avalanche
Several Loose Wet avalanches observed from 4/8-9 on east and west facing slopes below treeline, gouging to the ground