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Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center

Professional Observation

       

Basic Information

Observation Details

Observation Date:
February 2, 2023
Submitted:
February 2, 2023
Observer:
Geoff Unger | Key Observer
Zone or Region:
June Lake
Location:
June Mountain Backcountry wind transport but no windslab developing.

Signs of Unstable Snow

Recent Avalanches? 
Yes
Cracking? 
Isolated
Collapsing? 
None Experienced

Avalanche Observed from 1/31 or 2/1 was Loose Wet on a South aspect above Gem Lake in steep rocky terrain.  Instability on North aspects was associated with Dry Loose snow on 2/2.

Snow Stability

Stability Rating: 
Good
Confidence in Rating: 
High
Stability Trend: 
Steady

Key Points

We toured in the June Lake Backcountry today and witnessed a lot of wind transport, but isolated wind drifting.  Wind loaded snow reacted more like Loose Dry avalanches than windslab even though the surface snow was stiffer in places.

See photos and video to get an idea of the different observations from today.

 

Media

Advanced Information

Weather Summary

Increasing cloud throughout the day.  Cloud cover was thin initially and then thickened in the afternoon making visibility more challenging at the snow surface.  Wind was present in confined terrain and on ridge lines.   Temperatures were relatively mild and the cloud cover provided for some greenhouse effect.

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