Storm slab development

Traveled along the west side of the Swan Range, and the Swan Crest, to observe storm slab development and wind loading.

• At low elevations, there was up to 8" of low-density snow sitting on top of a 1" breakable rain crust formed 2/8. On steep slopes, this snow easily sluffed off the crust with ski cuts.
• At mid-elevations, there was up to 10" of snow sitting on top of a 3/4" breakable rain crust formed 2/8. In sheltered locations, this snow was low density and sluffed readily. In open areas, this snow was dense and was adhering to the underlying slab.
• At upper elevations, up to 12" of snow sat on top of a 1" crust formed 2/8. This snow was generally dense and was not adhering to the underlying crust in sheltered locations.
• Despite poor visibility, I noted a handful of thin (<12") storm slabs that had failed recently on easterly aspects. Most of these crown lines had already filled in with recent wind and snow.
• I was able to trigger several thin (<12") storm slabs on easterly aspects with ski cuts. 
• Cracking underfoot was observed throughout the tour with shooting cracks up to 20' in length noted at upper elevations.
• Moderate southwest winds transported snow throughout the day at mid and upper elevations.
• Facets on top of the 2/8 crust were observed at all elevations in sheltered locations.