Sawatch

Snowpack

Jason Konigsberg · Nov 22, 2019 · Sawatch

Weather

Wind was stronger today than previous days. I observed light wind loading but I also wasn't above treeline where I suspect wind loading was at least moderate. Light snow with some short periods of S1 while I was out form ~12 PM to 3 PM. Height of storm snow was measured at 17 cm.

Snowpack

I observed subtle collapses in flat, open meadows. Localized cracking around skis was also noted as the new snow failed on very snow beneath. There are still many areas with very thin cover. North through east-facing slopes near to above treeline are the exception. The snow depth is now covering ground obstacles making for a smooth uninterrupted snow surface. Snow depth is about 50 cm in these sheltered non-wind affected areas. The new snow of about 6 inches is fist-hard. I didn't get any results in extended column tests as the new snow just smooshed down underneath my shovel. I would expect the conditions to be much different on wind-loaded slopes which would be north through east slopes near ridgetop.