Northern San Juan
AvalancheJason Bushey · Feb 7, 2020 · Northern San Juan
Weather
Generally snowing all day but the car only had a dusting after 7 hours. Warm in the high 20s most of the day with variable winds. Typically wind was not an issue with loading below treeline but expect higher in at treeline and alpine to have this issue. Only had snow bombs from wind in the trees for <1 minute
Snowpack
HNS typically 30cm but variable with 20-60cm depending on loading. Towards ridgelines those numbers were on the higher end. A couple collapses and cracks were found on E at treeline in open areas with more wind impact. Slopes 30-32 did not have energy to slide. Most cracks initiated on a firm crust layer typically 40-60cm down in deep loading areas. Farther below treeline no signs of instability skinning or riding. Ski pen typically 30-40cm below treeline on east. Stayed on protected below treeline slopes and avoided at treeline terrain which were expected to be much more touchy. Good ole fashion powder smashin'.
Avalanche
None seen, but not a lot of opportunity. Would expect that SE alpine slopes had some good activity.