Observation: Other Regions

Location: Overflight from Seward to Lake George

Date:
Observer:
Route & General Observations

Observations from Seward to Portage via heli. Thinner coverage towards 4th of July Creek then increasing snow the further north traveled. Did not get a view of Lost Lake area. Numerous avalanches from 2k-5k on south, west and east aspects in the Placer /Skookum area. Some crowns appear to be the entire storm cycle snow with crowns 3-6 feet deep.

Some areas of extensive propagation as wide as 1,000 feet, however most were more isolated . Some areas in Placer that received more snow saw propagation than ran up and over spine features from one gully and through the next, illustrating significant connectivity in that region.

Appeared to be much less reactive with far less natural activity north of the Seward highway towards 20 Mile. Although out of the forecast zone further to the north, new snow depths ranged from 70cm-170cm between 1,800′-3,000′ elevations. Storm ended a bit upside down, but likely to consolidate quickly.

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

Multiple naturals.

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

Mostly sunny, light variable winds, temps ranging from 37 degrees at 3k up 4th of July Creek, to mid 20's at 5k near Placer.