NRC: The surface hoar is down 80 -
90 cm at treeline. We had a massive whumpf while digging a pit. A couple more
when three of us jumped together. The layer is hard to trigger, but if
triggered has the potential to release large avalanches. Ski quality was good.
A thin, breakable sun crust formed on more sun exposed aspects.
Hospital Bowl: Great skiing, only a
bit wind stiff on some spots. We did not find the late December surface hoar
above 2200m. A pit below Ursus Minor Col showed a strong and well consolidated
snowpack with a thin ice lense about 80 cm down that seemed to bond well to the
layers above and below. Lots of old avalanche debris from the last storm cycle
on various aspects. New surface hoar was building rapidly around tree line.
Lookout Notch: Strong wind effect
in the entire Illecilleweat drainage above 1600-1700 m.
Overall improving conditions. Still
watch out for the late December surface hoar in particular in unreleased
slopes around treeline and large steep openings below
treeline. This layer is still good
for surprises.
Thomas
Exner
Mountain Guide (IFMGA/UIAGM)
OnTop ltd
www.ontopmountaineering.com
1-800 506 7177