Observation: Turnagain

Location: Seattle Ridge

Date:
Observer:
Route & General Observations

Took the snowmachine up-track to Seattle Ridge, starting at the Turnagain Pass RWIS station at 1020ft.

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?No
Collapsing (Whumphing)?Yes
Cracking (Shooting cracks)?Yes
Observer Comments

Pole tests as we neared Seattle Ridge revealed a developing wind slab.

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

No new snow. Wind ranged from calm at the trailhead (1000') to moderate on Seattle Ridge. Temps in the mid to high 20s(F).

Snow surface

There was very large (5mm+) surface hoar up to the lower valleys. As we neared the ridge (starting at ~2070') there was some wind affect, and the ridge itself bears the signs of a developing wind slab.

Snowpack

HS 30-35cm. Faceting settled snow from October 29th snowfall. Ground on the ridge was lightly frozen, and the beginnings of a wind slab and cornices were present on the ridgeline, confirmed by pole tests. As we toured up the ridge looking for a place to transition, the soft slab underneath us collapsed, resulting in ~10m shooting cracks.

Photos & Video
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