At 2284 meters the temperature was -10 winds were 20-35 KPH from the SSE. At 1650 meters the temperature was -6, 5 cm of new snow was recorded there, 6 in the past 24 hours. In the valley it was 0. Observations taken at 06:00 Hrs. Max winds at 2284 meters were 75 KPH from SE at around 10:30 when the brunt of the precipitation occurred. The moon was up above the clouds first thing this morning.
For the forecast we can expect more unsettled conditions as a cold front moved through early this morning bringing weak ridging into the area until the warm front approaches on Thursday into Friday. Another cold front should slide through on Saturday. Friday looks like the freezing levels will be on the rise, warmest readings since early last November. Guesstimates: Flurries today(1-2 cm), possible flurries on Thursday, 5-8 cm for Friday morning then a good dose of rain at 1650 meters until the cold front brings moderate snow for Saturday (10-15 by Sunday morning). Hope I am wrong on the freezing level!!
For the updated local avalanche advisory: Whistler Mountain Snow Safety
Snow on Mauna Kea: Hawaii
Great account of the rescued snowmobiler on Brohm Ridge: CAC Forecasters Blog
Clues to Climate Cycles dug from South Pole Snow Pit: Science Daily
Atmospheric River heading our way: David Jones
Thanks to Jamie May for the photo and observations:
Some observations from February 26, 2013.
Chief Pascall, W shoulder, NNW aspect 1820m at top of treeline. Traversing a short moderate slope(photo) a sudden shear produced a size 1.5 slab, 45cm deep.
Quick pit around the corner on N aspect failed after 3 from the elbow at 35cms and once again at 45cms which appeared to be where the buried surface hoar layer is?
Skied tighter trees N aspect and still had some slabs pull out VERY easily just below treeline.
Met 2 other groups on Pascall, 7 or 8 vehicles at Cayoosh parking lot(plowed), no cars at a plowed Joffre lot, 4 or 5 at salt sheds.
IMO if its busy and you need a spot, pull out a shovel.
Jamie May
