Professional Observation

Observation Details

Signs of Unstable Snow

Snow Stability

Bottom Line

At Spout Springs yesterday we found over 4 feet of new snow has been deposited since Friday, 2/12. The snowpack is over 10 feet deep. It was snowing lightly on us all day. The winds were light out of the NW. The 4 feet of new snow is right-side-up gaining strength and density down to the old/new interface. We conducted a Rutschblock test on a NE aspect at 5200'. Results: RB6 EB - partial block failures on density changes within the top 2' of the snowpack and one partial block failure down at the old/new interface. Overall, I would say the snowpack stability is fair, but it will quickly settle out and gain strength over the next few days. I'd avoid slopes >35 degrees and wind-loaded terrain features below ridgelines on N-E aspects.