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Professional Observation

Basic Information

Observation Details

Observation Date:
December 30, 2021
Submitted:
December 31, 2021
Observer:
TAC - Andy Bond
Zone or Region:
Taos Area
Location:
Wildy Bowl

Signs of Unstable Snow

Recent Avalanches? 
None Observed
Cracking? 
None Experienced
Collapsing? 
None Experienced
Small wind-loaded test slopes were not finding the wind slabs to be reactive to ski cuts.

Media

Massive downfall has destroyed the below treeline skiing on the skiers right of El Funko bringing you back to the trailhead

Advanced Information

Weather Summary

Cloud Cover:
Overcast
Temperature:
5 - 15
Wind:
Moderate , SW

light snowfall throughout the day, but not accumulating to any measurable amounts. SW winds were in the 20's near and above treeline. About a foot of low-density snow was available for transport from the December 29th storm and snow was easily transported at ridgelines.

Snowpack Observations

About a foot of low-density snow fell from the 12/29 storm making for good skiing in wind-sheltered areas. We were not finding the new snow to be reactive where we were traveling below and near treeline. Extended column tests continue to produce full propagation with easy to moderate force on basal facets/ depth hoar near the ground on northerly and east aspects. This persistent weak layer is now buried 3 to 4 feet below slabs that formed over the last week.

ENE aspect near treeline with about a foot of low-density fist hard snow from the 12/29 storm on top of the denser slab from Christmas Eve storm. Basal facets from earlier snow continue to linger near the ground.

Avalanche Problems

Problem Location Distribution Sensitivity Size Comments
Persistent Slab
Isolated
Specific
Widespread
Unreactive
Stubborn
Reactive
Touchy
D1
D1.5
D2
D2.5
D3
D3.5
D4
D4.5
D5
Wind Slab
Isolated
Specific
Widespread
Unreactive
Stubborn
Reactive
Touchy
 Weren't finding wind slabs to be reactive where we were traveling, but suspect they might be more reactive on the leeward sides of ridgelines at higher elevations.

Cracking and collapsing has become less common in the last several days. The basal facet/ depth hoar layer continues to linger on or near the ground on northerly and east aspects. Expect this problem to become more of a concern over the weekend as a significant storm will provide a big test to these fragile weak layers.

Terrain Use

Haven't been pushing into steep terrain during this active weather week. TRAVEL IS NOT RECOMMENDED IN THE TREES TO THE SKIERS RIGHT OF EL FUNKO DUE TO BLOW DOWNS!!

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