Public Observation
Observation Details
Observation Date:
December 29, 2020Submitted:
December 30, 2020Zone or Region:
Taos AreaActivity:
Skiing/SnowboardingLocation:
Lower Wildy BowlTriggered Avalanches
Did you trigger any avalanches?
YesWas it intentional?
YesAvalanche Type:
Soft SlabSize:
Size 1: Relatively harmless to peopleElevation:
10,800’Aspect:
NComments:
Small test slopes, isolated mounds and terrain features north through south sides all easy to releasePhoto:
Observed Avalanches
Did you observe any avalanches?
YesAvalanche Type:
Soft SlabSize:
Size 2: Could bury, injure, or kill a personElevation:
Near TLAspect:
EComments:
East side chutes on KachinaPhoto:
Signs of Unstable Snow
Did you see shooting cracks?
Yes, IsolatedDid you experience collapsing or whumpfing?
Yes, IsolatedObservations
Working a pit at 11,880’, east aspect, results were somewhat consistent and indicative of conditions described in TAC forecast - 110cm depth, new snow/old interface 35cm down - CT9 RP Q2, CT4 RP Q2, ECTPV at same layer with resistant planar characteristics, prop saw test at this same layer failed at 20cm. Appears to be a “dirty” layer - lots of tree debris from before this storm’s snowfall began, didn’t see much dust although some areas it was noticeably darker and very well- defined. Also found a reactive layer at 60cm down, stiffer 4f, CT’s failing between 14 and 19 taps after removing upper fresh snow SS. Basal depth hoar was noticeable but not overtly reactive even with shovel shears.
Media
