Public Observation #2023-1101

Observation Details

Submitted:
March 24, 2023 11:37 AM
Observation Date:
March 24, 2023
Zone or Region:
Central Cascades
Activity:
Skiing/Snowboarding
Location:
Tumalo

Signs of Unstable Snow

Did you see shooting cracks? 
Yes
Did you experience collapsing or whumpfing? 
No

Observations

Toured Tumalo from Dutchman. Overcast sky with moderate to heavy snowfall, moderate winds. Significant snow deposition, witnessed 6-8’ wind lips on South slope. On the ascent noticed cracking and was able to kick off small mini slides doing several skin cuts.

Dug into the snow on a south slope at 7400’ at 8:30 a.m. Found 4 finger hardness down to 60cm below the surface, then experienced the crust under which found 1 finger hardness.

Did an ECT, had an ECTP17 but no pop or drop. Did not attempt to replicate due to getting cold in that wind.

Ski down was fantastic when there was angle, ski hiking when not.

Media