Strong Easterly winds moving snow and loading leeward aspects/catchment zones at treeline and above.
Observation: Turnagain
Location: Tincan Trees
We took a quick New Year’s Day tour starting in the rain at the parking lot and turning around in the snow at treeline, 2,400′. Goal for the day was a look at the December storm snow and how it is settling out. Also, we are looking to keep tabs on the rain/snow line.
Observer Comments
Weather
Light rain below 1,400', light snowfall above. Easterly moderate winds with strong gusts at treeline and above. Temperatures around 35F at 1,000' (parking lot) and around 30F at 2,200'. Obscured skies - very limited visibility, could not see above treeline.
Snow surface
Wet, saturated snow below 1,800'. Heavy dense and damp snow below 2,200'. Above 2,200' snow dries out considerably - this is the same area where winds are affecting the snow.
Snowpack
We have no information for above treeline elevations - no visibility. However, at treeline the Holiday storm snow is wet and sticky and no weaknesses were seen in our pit. See video.
Wet and saturated snow made skiing difficult in the trees.
At 2,400' (top of treeline) wind affected snow was drier but still quite sticky.