Front Range
SnowpackJake Davis · Nov 24, 2013 · Front Range
Weather
Broken cloud cover with minimal wind, especially lower in the gulch. Wind speed at ridgeline is estimate. Temps were in the mid to high 20's throughout the day, warming to about 28 by the 1:30 when we departed. Temp was 24 at time of observation. Last precipitation was likely Friday with what appeared to be about 6 inches of new snow. Total snow depth down to ground was 22 inches with fairly intense prior wind loading, likely from last weekends snow and wind event.
Snowpack
Total snowpack was between 18 and 22 inches, with a 20 inch snow pack at sight of observation. Snow pack consisted layers of facets progressing to dense, unfaceted snow. First layer of facets was from the ground to four inches up with large (1.5 cm d) facets. Three other layers of facets were identified, making up the next 6 inches of snow. On top of the 10 inches of facets was older, denser snow. Resting on top of this layer was between 4-6 inches of new snow. Snow temperatures were not taken. First column test was at 11,100 ft. on a northwest aspect on a 25 degree slope. Results were CT23, Q2 breaking between the top faceted layer and lower windloaded snow.. A second extended column at 11250 on a 35 degree slope and northwest aspect resulted in ECTP13 with a fracture across the whole column and sheering just above ground. On exit from the zone, whumping and settling snow resulted in propagated fractures up to three meters wide.