Snowing & Blowing
17th February 2022
Haven’t used that title much this winter – but it definitely works for today. Very strong winds today – at 8am they were averaging 66 mph, gusting 85 mph at 930 metres. I was definitely walking at a steep angle into wind today and having to fight to maintain my preferred direction. Snowfall overnight, then intermittent snow showers during the morning, followed by some fairly hefty showers to glen level this afternoon.
If felt very different up the hill today from yesterday – There is a lot more snow around and it was being drifted constantly. There are deep drifts at relatively low levels (700m) in any wind sheltered location with deeper deposits at higher elevations. Evidence of some small cornice collapses on N, NE aspects at 1000 metres – nothing significant but evidence of fragility.
More snow due tomorrow but the winds are leading us a merry dance backing all the way from West through South, East and North, finally settling at North-West. This will improve the general cover but will also create a more complicated stability map. Take it steady out there – wind scoured is safest – soft slab will be suspect!
Heavy drift from Right to Left of photo. Slope is scoured and icy. Windslab in corrie to the left of shot.
Deep drifts in lee locations.
Evidence of small cornice collapse.
Some deep drifts even at relatively low levels. Over a metre at 750m here.
The general cover is improving.
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