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Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center

Public Observation

Observation Details

Observation Date:
November 9, 2022
Submitted:
November 9, 2022
Zone or Region:
Mammoth Lakes
Activity:
Skiing/Snowboarding
Location:
Old Mammoth Road / Mammoth Rock Trailhead

Observations

Quick tour this morning up Old Mammoth Road to check conditions. Snow was unconsolidated, which made flotation difficult, sinking in 2 - 2.5 feet. Encountered numerous buried sagebrush traps where the snow completely collapsed. Snow seemed otherwise stable though broke apart in large, fragile blocks as I approached the ridge overlooking Old Mammoth. I heard some sharp crashing sounds coming from Sherwin Ridge but was not able to see any evidence of avalanche activity. Observed considerable wind along the ridge and lots of blowing snow.

Signs of Unstable Snow

None reported

Media

Ridge overlooking Old Mammoth - some wind sculpting of the snow, but snow was still loose.
Mammoth Rock
2ft deep skin track, with some large blocks of snow breaking off
Lots of buried brush exposed while skinning, looking toward Mammoth Mountain
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