Gunnison

Avalanche

(Public) Crested Butte Avalanche Center · Dec 2, 2021 · Gunnison

Weather

CLR Calm winds BTL-NTL, with light W wind near ridgeline 12,000’+. 36F @ 9,400’ (11:00) 42°F @ 11,850’ (13:30) No Precipitation No riming observed

Snowpack

Snow Surface: 2-12mm surface hoar feathers 9,800’-10,800 in sheltered terrain. Roller balls present at 11:30 on Southerly aspects Widespread moist surfaces with a 2-3cm thick MFcr above unsupportive wind stiffened snow and/or NSFs @ 11,000+ in non-shaded areas. Ski/boot pen: 15cm/ 5-30cm Overall, the snowpack is sporadic and terrain/aspect dependent, specifically NW-NE aspects harboring 10-65cm with an upside-down structure. Test results showed poor structure, moderate, strength and low propagation propensity due to inconsistent slab layering and continuity. Most wind sheltered areas do not have a slab component, mainly unsupportive and cohesionless facets making up the bulk of the pack. Areas where a slab recipe is found are wind-packed slopes, leeward slopes and ridge lines where assessing for overhead hazard could mitigate exposure.