Storm Break Tour

CB Avalanche Center2019-20 Observations

Location: Crested Butte Area
Date of Observation: 12/13/2019
Name: Joey Carpenter

Subject: Storm Break Tour

Aspect: East, South East, South

Elevation: 9400-11900
Avalanches:

From the car (estimated) R1D2 SE face baldy

E face Emmons ridge 11.5k R1D1.5 gouged into scree at the ground on this 40 degree+ (estimate) crown was partially filled by the time I saw this approximately 24 inch deep slide.

Weather: OVC throughout tour from 1430-1700. Break in the storm provided light winds, little to no snowfall. S2 rates started by the time I reached 11k. Westerly winds picked up during my transition causing heavy snow transport along visible ridges. Snowpack: The higher in elevation, the denser the slab felt through pole probing and quick hand puts. Especially drifted areas. I did get some small collapses but nothing substantial. Slope angles were kept in check and all steep terrain was avoided. Snow totals at 11k were 9 inches.