Observation: Hatcher Pass

Location: Hatcher Pass, Independence Mine Area

Date:
Observer:
Route & General Observations

Avalanche 2 Class. 12+ new snow over past 24hrs. High South winds early AM until about 9:30 actively loading North aspects. Observed well developed cornices, loading, and recent shallow avalanches on nearly all North aspects – particularly April Bowl. Cross loading on East and West aspects throughout the mine bowl. Observed one small (R1, D2) slab avalanche below cornice on upper part of April Bowl. Weather calmed by 10:00 AM with periods sun and warming temps. Roller balls observed by midday along South aspect of Skyscraper Peak. Class toured up pass road and dug a test pit on a North aspect test slope.

Red Flags
Red flags are simple visual clues that are a sign of potential avalanche danger. Please record any sign of red flags below.
Obvious signs of instability
Recent Avalanches?Yes
Collapsing (Whumphing)?No
Cracking (Shooting cracks)?No
Observer Comments

Widespread avalanches on N aspects - likely released the night before. Roller balls on S aspects during the day as weather calmed and sun came out.

Weather & Snow Characteristics
Please provide details to help us determine the weather and snowpack during the time this observation took place.
Weather

High winds early AM diminishing by 10:00. Weather cleared throughout day with periods of calm and bright sun.

Snow surface

Wind transported new snow. Soft in early AM turning to heavy throughout day with increasing temperatures

Photos & Video
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