Deminishing evidence of ongoing deep slab avalanche problem on Tamarack Peak.

SAC forecasters went out on Tamarack Peak today in search of ongoing signs of instability for the deep slab avalanche problem that was present in the area on Nov 16. Snowpit data was collected at three different locations (see below) as well as at the crown of the Nov 16 deep slab avalanche in Hourglass Bowl.

Snowpit test results had transitioned from the stubborn (difficult to trigger) category on Nov 16 to the unreactive category on Nov 17 in all locations. This included at the crown of the Hourglass avalanche and in a snowpit that was adjacent to the one of the snowpits from Nov 16. Basal facets were found at all four locations, but appeared to be in a state of continued rounding and adjustment to the newly present storm snow load above.

Despite the above signs of improving stability, the deep slab avalanche problem is well understood to have a higher level of uncertainly than other avalanche problems. Additionally, the snowpack does not gain stability at an equal rate in all locations. This leaves some uncertainly as to the ongoing possibility of an isolated deep slab avalanche event occurring in the coming days. While it has become unlikely, it is not impossible.

Snowpit data was collected at:

NE aspect, 8,990', below treeline

NW aspect, 9,360', below treeline

NE aspect, 9,725', near treeline

NE aspect, 9,840', near treeline (avalanche crown)

See snowpit graphs for specific lat/long info.