Front Range
SnowpackAlexander Greenwald · Nov 6, 2017 · Front Range
Weather
Windy, below freezing, snowing, blowing snow. Aspects noted North, East, and Northeast Elevation 10,000-12,000 feet
Snowpack
1 meter plus deep snowpack below tree line with a faceted ground/base layer about 6-10 centimeters in depth, rotten snow on top of faceted base layer, 1-3 centimeter rain crust on top of rotten snow and faceted base layer, 1-3 feet of new storm snow or powder snow. Lots of settling, wumping, and shooting cracks in flat and sloped areas below tree line. Above tree line North-Northeast aspects have a weak faceted base/ground layer approximately 6-10 centimeters in depth, with a 1-3 centimeter rain crust on top of the faceted base layer, and 1-3 feet of new storm snow powder on top. The top layer of new snow was actively becoming transported and packed into a more solid layer throughout the day. Wind slabs likely developing. The cornice on the ridgeline of South Diamond Peak had grown tremendously since October 28th. Parts of the cornice have exceeded 10 plus feet in height. The usually wind scoured/sun affected saddle in between South and North Diamond Peaks was accumulating a deep wind slab that was sitting on a frozen rain crust that was deposited a week earlier. This slab was 1-3 plus feet deep in areas.