31 Dec 2012

Blackcomb Glacier had some great snow on the sides of the groomed pass. Another great day of shredding!!!

                             Hyperbolic snowbow caused by the minute man made snow particles.

At 2260 meters as of 06:00 the temperature was -5.5. the winds were 0-10 KPH from the SSW. At 1650 meters the temperature was -5.5,  no new snow was recorded there. In the valley it is -7.

For the forecast a split flow aloft will give us some cloud and possible flurries.  The ridge will reestablish itself and give us sunny skies for New Years day. No significant change in the pattern until Saturday evening. Inverted temperatures will be with us for a couple of days. 

For the updated local advisory: Whistler/Blackcomb Snow Safety

A report from Japan, worthy of a read, obviously people need educating as they all do no matter where you are in the world of avalanches: Advisory

Disturbing news, Aspen Ski Patroller dies in an avalanche : Another Tragedy
Condolences to Patsy's Family

Skinning into avalanche control situations, not wise, guess it happens in most ski resorts: Red Mountain

Village in Norway isolated by avalanches: Road Blocked

Avalanche at Swedish Ski Resort: ARE





A much different image compared to the day before, taken December 30, 2012.


Traffic jam on the Spearhead traverse, do we need more backcountry access, absolutley NOT! 


For the birders out there here is an American Dipper doing what it is good at , dipping.


Below are some shots from Pete B, Steep Creek Area West towards Rohr Chute 56