Observation: Hatcher Pass

Location: Microdot - Alaska Avalanche School

Date:

March 27, 2021 9:02pm

Observer:

Robert Bowler

Route & General Observations

Shot tour from Independence mine parking lot to base of Microdot to study snowpack. Many natural avalanches observed since the previous day Marmot skier triggered avalanche covering the road. Hoping to find potential weak layers involved in the numerous avalanches in the area.

Contact, Location & General Observations

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Forecaster Comments

This is the same avalanche that was triggered by a snowmachine highmarking the 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

Instructors observed a D2-D2.5 natural avalanche on south-easterly aspect of Skyscraper mountain at 4:15 pm.

Weather & Snow Characteristics

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Weather

Below zero Fahrenheit morning temperatures rising to above freezing in the afternoon. Winds calm, scattered clouds, no precipitation.

Snow surface

Near surface faceting in the morning and afternoon rollerballs on southern aspects.

Snowpack

Upright cohesive snowpack with no results found on CT and ECT.

Photos & Video

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Microdot AAS-27-Mar

Location

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