Hot off the FAC presses: We have been reviewing observations that were posted by FAC staff and the public since January 17th. We mapped all of the avalanches, shooting cracks/collapses, and propagating test results that can be attributed to a layer of surface hoar that was buried on 1/17. The results help explain the current persistent slab problem in our area. We are publishing our results here to help you visualize the distribution of a problem that has not gone away. This graphic is based on observational data which has some sampling biases due to terrain and travel habits, and should be used only to view a general pattern. The empty quadrants of the compass rose do not necessarily mean that there is no buried surface hoar there, just that we have been unable to locate it in our travels and tests. Attached also are some pictures from the past 2 weeks to refresh your memory as to how the problem evolved.
