Observation: Chugach State Park

Location: Peak 3

Date:

November 24, 2020 5:03pm

Observer:

Eric Roberts

Route & General Observations

1:45-4:00pm
Standard up-track towards the lower west facing flank at approx 2,700 ft. I performed two instability tests after experiencing a localized but audible whumph on the ascent track.

Red Flags

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Obvious signs of instability

Recent Avalanches?	No
Collapsing (Whumphing)?	Yes
Cracking (Shooting cracks)?	No

Observer Comments

Localized, audible whumph when I approached a wind-slab flank to test depth.
No cracking
No observed releases

Weather & Snow Characteristics

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

Weather

Broken skies with afternoon sun peaking through clouds
Consistent, light winds from East
-2°C @ 2,000ft
-5°C @ 2,700 ft

Snow surface

Decomposing PP 1mm over loose near-surface facets (1-2mm)
Isolated and variable pockets of F hard surface adjacent to P hard win crust in exposed surfaces.
No snow accumulation on tree branches/alders.
Ski/Boot: 0-10cm/ 20-50cm

Snowpack

*See SnowPilot for details*

Photos & Video

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SnowPilot of Test Pit

Location

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