Sawatch

Avalanche

Becs Hodgetts · Apr 24, 2016 · Aspen

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Weather

Warm touring in Valley, wind transporting snow low in Mountain Boy Basin. Ridge line was obscured by cloud cover and blowing snow.

Snowpack

Last weeks storm snow has settled to 2-5cm over a stout melt freeze crust. Near and Below tree line crust was supportable to skis with minor local cracking. It did not support boots and foot pen was 30cm on steeper slopes, 60cm in trees.

Avalanche

Noted one new avalanche in Star Mtn B. I believe these slides started at ridgecrest from wind transport of last weeks storm snow. By the time they are low in tracks the debris appears wet. I think they gouge down into moist snow. Similar to the scenario on Hwy 550 earlier this spring.