Good Bonds

Wednesday, November 14, 2007

By Sam Petri

Jackson Hole, Wyo.-The snow that fell in late October has now either melted away or settled into a crust on north-facing aspects above 9,000 feet. With the new snowfall, this leaves the backcountry user with two possible scenarios when heading out into avalanche terrain.

New snow on top of bare slopes means a clean slate for the snow pack. That’s a good thing. However, new November snow on the old October crust layer could be problematic depending on how well the new snow bonds to the crust. According to Avalanche Center Director Bob Comey, temperature is a key deciding factor.

Last Saturday was warm when the snow began to fall up high. The surface of the old crust was warm as was the new snow, providing a chance for a good bond between layers. “That scenario is pretty good,” Comey said.

Still, at press time it was raining in the valley and snowing up high. The storm was not over and it was unknown if the new snow was bonding well to the existing crust layer.
“Be aware of that crust surface and try to get info on how well it’s bonded,” said Comey.

Ironically, the best places to ski right now are also the most dangerous: high-elevation, north-facing slopes that still have the original crust layer as a base. But Comey urges skiers to know their stuff, use caution and check the avalanche forecast at 733-2664.


PERMALINK:
Good Bonds | Planet JH News Article: Snow Report Column

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