Observation 1/29/2022 local_see
Wind Loading observation on Mount Colden
Mount Colden
Observation Details
We observed heavy wind loading localized to a N/NW slope at 3000' elevation. A snow pit revealed a 40cm thick wind slab above a crust with a facet layer below. An extended column test was performed and yielded a fracture and propagation of the slab on ECTP 25. While we could not get the snowpack to collapse by jumping on it, the ECT showed the capability of a large hidden wind slab and we decided to turn around.
Observation Photos
Wind Loading on Mt. Colden open_in_new full size
We observed heavy wind loading localized to a N/NW slope at 3000' elevation. A snow pit revealed a 40cm thick wind slab above a crust with a facet layer below.
Wind Loading on Mt. Colden open_in_new full size
An extended column test was performed and yielded a fracture and propagation of the slab on ECTP 25. While we could not get the snowpack to collapse by jumping on it, the ECT showed the capability of a large hidden wind slab and we decided to turn around.