CAIC Observation Report

Snowpack

Skiing in Buff Pass area yesterday. Heavy snowfall most of the day. probably 8-10" of new snow. Top snow was very reactive on steeper slopes. Mostly 6" deep new snow clearing out of normal slide areas. Largest slide, result of a ski cut, was 12-18" crown, wind load, and ran a good distance into trees below. Great powder skiing in most areas. Pit dug early am with only 3-4" of new on top, North facing, 9500' elevation, 25 degree slope. Failed at ground on isolation, but had good stiffness throughout. 140 cm total depth. C17 / Q1 / 20 cm down on crust from 3-4 days ago. C22 / Q2 / 60cm down, and C26 / Q1 / 75cm down. No failure on October snow layer that was very visible 30 cm from ground