Gunnison

Avalanche

(Public) Crested Butte Avalanche Center · Nov 17, 2021 · Gunnison

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Weather

Weather: Few in AM trending to CLR in PM Light westerly winds in AM in Treeline Consistent, moderate NW winds above treeline and along ridgelines 36°F @ 9,580’ (10:00) 15°F @ 12,080 (14:30) No Precipitation No riming observed

Snowpack

Snowpack: My focus was to assess the early season snowpack instability in the alpine and potential problems that may arise with the next added load. Tests showed low strength, propagation propensity and poor stability overall. The buried graupel layer 43cm down was reactive in both small and large column tests snd very visible in profile. 9,560’-12,340’: .5mm Graupel is present on most sheltered snow surfaces which could be buried in future storms. 20-40cm of unsupportive snow exists in most shaded and sheltered locations with wind loaded areas having up to 200cm. *See snowplow for details* Red Flags: No cracking, shallow localized collapsing in wind drifted areas No observed releases No test slopes performed Active snow transport on ridgelines around 12,000’ on Scarp Ridge and Ruby Ridgeline

Avalanche

Observed avalanche activity: No