Subject: | [MCR] Coastal Conditions Aprill 14-22 |
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Date: | Wed, 23 Apr 2008 11:21:13 -0700 |
This is a overview of conditions experienced on an Assistant Ski Guide Exam, April 14-22 based out of Pemberton. We traveled throughout the Duffy Lake area and the Whistler / Blackcomb backcountry. For the most part it was a chilly week for April. Light southwest flow brought fluctuating freezing levels from valley bottom to 1500m April 15-17. During this time up to 10cm fell accompanied by light to moderate wind. Five to 15cm of low density snow fell on the 18th due to a cold front. Temperatures plummeted after the front and winds increased to moderate from the northeast. Minimum temperatures each morning ranged from -15 to -19 in the alpine. Daytime highs ranged from -5 to -10, elevation dependent. A crust that formed on April 12, was found 10-30cm below the surface on all but high north facing terrain. For the most part the bond between the crust and snow were good, but facets were starting to form above the crust. Periods of wind through the week caused isolated pockets of windslabs in alpine lee features up to 30cm thick. We experienced minimal avalanche activity through the week, with no significant naturals observed. We managed to kick off a few sluffs to size 2 due to heating on solar aspects early in the week and ski cut one size 1 on a high elevation northwest facing lee feature. As expected this time of year, the best skiing was on high elevation sheltered north facing terrain. On other quadrants and elevations, dust on crust describes conditions. Due to the crust ski crampons were useful. In general we rated stability G/VG/VG _______________________________________________ These observations and opinions are those of the person who submitted them. The ACMG and its members take no responsibility for errors, omissions, or lapses in continuity. Conditions differ greatly over time and space due to the variable nature of mountain weather and terrain. Application of this information provides no guarantee of increased safety. Do not use the Mountain Conditions Report as the sole factor in planning trips or making decisions in the field. Please check out http://acmg.ca/mcr for more information. |
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