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Taos Avalanche Center

Public Observation

Observation Details

Observation Date:
December 14, 2024
Submitted:
December 16, 2024
Zone or Region:
Taos Area
Activity:
XC Skiing/Snowshoeing
Location:
La Cal Basin

Signs of Unstable Snow

Did you see shooting cracks? 
No
Did you experience collapsing or whumpfing? 
Yes, Isolated

Observations

Snow accumulated on North-Northeast slopes from strong winds blowing from the west. Whumpfing was heard along large Cornices built up on the ridges. Snow pit dug (65 cm) had two distinct weak layers (F and 4F) and a dense hard slab on the top (P) that was slabbing in areas of the slope. Potential for wind slabs. Looks like next big snow will bring large Storm slabs and persistent slabs, so I would avoid immediately going out after next big snow storm.

Media

65 cm snow pack dug in snow pit located in La Cal Basin. Two distinct weak layers (F and 4F). Top layer hard and dense (P), middle layer dense slab (1F)
Wind blown ridges with large Cornices, hard slabs present, most likely forming from strong winds

Advanced Observations

Observed Avalanche Problem #1: 
Cornice
Comments: 
Mostly on ridges on the east-northeast face
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