Save $50 AST1- Calgary, Red Deer, Edm, G.P., Peace River, Dawson Crk, Valemt, Fernie

[zacs]

Last few classes of the season.

Psst...pass it along, $50 Discount for Snowest members to complete the AST1 Class and Field session.
Just enter Snwst50 in the 'Special Code' box on the shopping cart page.

Remember that past Zac's students can use refresher discounts of up to $150/p. CLICK HERE for details on discounts.

 

[zacs]

I just ran across this video clip. It is from Montana. Seriously weak foundation from the shallow snowpack in this bulletin region. The shallow snow and cool temps have led to changes to the snow crystals to create depth hoar and large facets. Super sugary and super weak.
The extended column test that they demonstrate in the video clip is normally performed on a block of snow that is 30cm by 90 cm, but the forecasters almost doubled the length of the column to 175cm to highlight how seriously unstable the snowpack was in the area. The Extended Column test is one of the tests that we demonstrate in the AST Field sessions. It is a great test to help us appreciate the possibility of an avalanche propagating away from the trigger spot. Basically, a test to see whether the dominoes are connected and how easily they might tip over once they get started.

January 4 video GNFAC - Super extended Column Test

If you haven't already signed up to receive avalanche bulletins by email or through a smart phone app, CLICK HERE to find the details.

Things are pretty wild this weekend in the Lizard Range if you are headed to the areas nearby to Fernie, BC. Not sure where the Lizard Range is? How about the Purcells? CLICK HERE to view the CAC Public Avalanche Bulletin Map overlayed onto Google Maps.
Locate nearby towns and road systems to clarify the Bulletin boundaries.

Enjoy the warmer temps this weekend. Wow...pretty darn cold the past few days....lucky I had some inside jobs to do!