Aspen
AvalancheMatt Huber · Jan 17, 2019 · Aspen
Weather
Temperatures were in the upper twenties with broken skies until around 2:00 and skies became completely overcast. Ridgeline winds were obviously transporting significant snow even down low. Above treeline winds may have been too strong for efficient loading.
Snowpack
Near treeline, the total snow depth was generally three to four feet deep, the January 16 storm has settled to around five inches.Test slopes produced no results. Several observers in the area are also noting the basal depth hoar has become more reactive in test pits.
Avalanche
The majority of avalanches that were observed were on North thru East aspects. Although the avalanches above treeline were significantly larger, avalanches at all elevation bands were observed. The largest was observed near Taylor Pass at 12,400' on a Northeast aspect. The crown was estimated 6-9 feet deep and over 1500 feet wide, traveling across a significant terrain feature.HS N R3 D2.5