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The recent storm is over now, having deposited over 70 cm of fresh snow at the resort level and even more at higher elevations during last 4 days.
On the night of February 1-2, strong W and SW winds carried some of this snow onto the leeward E and NE slopes, forming wind-blown layers that are now covered by fresh snow that fell on February 3-4. On Feb 4 strong N and NW winds were present at higher elevations in the afternoon as well - combination of these events created complex wind loading pattern at higher elevations.
Recent high natural avalanche activity observed on Feb 4th confirms high potential for rider-triggered avalanches as well.
Rain was ongoing below altitudes of approximately 1,500-1,800 meters, significantly saturating the snowpack in the subalpine zone. Top of the snowpack than refroze the night after.
Upcoming long awaited sunny days look welcoming for backcountry exploration but use them wisely and stay safe - current conditions did not become less tricky!
Lots of size 1-2 natural slab avalanches along the Miketi-Sheli-Lomisa ridge
A skitourer-triggered size 1 avalanche was observed near the top of Lomisi ridge
A consistent snowpack of 150 cm can be found around the area, with lower snow depths in the sub-alpine and deeper areas where wind has deposited snow near ridges.
Sugary, weak 10-20 cm thick base layer at ground still remains a main structural problem of the snowpack in the high alpine and alpine zones on W, N, and E slopes.
Most recent 70 cm of fresh damp snow buried this layer deeper in the snowpack making it less likely to be triggered by a single rider. However, extensive field tests are required to take this danger off the list.
Mostly clear with some high altitude clouds on Feb 5th that will get thicker on Feb 6th as the next storm cycle will begin to roll in.
Air temps at around -5C to -2C at the resort level during daytime and as low as -11C after dark.
Freezing level at 800 m. on Feb 5th will rise to 1900 m. on Feb 6th.
Calm during daytime with some moderate winds on the night of Feb 5th-6th.
It was reported that strong N, NW winds in Kobi valley scoured some areas of snow and rocks are again an issue in this valley. Look out for shark attacks!