Northern San Juan
AvalancheChris Dickson · Dec 1, 2022 · Northern San Juan
Weather
Clear skies became broken by noon, and overcast with stratus by 1:30pm. Temperatures rose into the low 40's, but then gradually cooled throughout the afternoon. South winds were observed transporting snow along the ridgetops, and widespread wind scouring was apparent in the alpine.
Snowpack
Below treeline, at 10,800', the snowpack remains between 30-50cms deep, with 10-15cms of new snow from 11/29. On E and NE aspects, the snowpack was completely faceted prior to the new snow, with only SE aspects harboring faint traces of faceting crusts. These faceted layers are incredibly weak, consisting of large grain (3mm+) well developed facets. Near treeline, at 11,300', the snowpack is only a bit deeper, ranging from 50-70csm. In a pit dug at treeline, on an East aspect, height of snow was 68cms deep, with 27cms of new snow (10.5"). A subtle dust layer was observed right below the new snow, a result of the winds in November.
Avalanche
Two R1-D1 avalanches were observed below steep rocky North-facing cliffs above treeline, appearing to be the result of the new snow and winds.