High Camp: 12” in 24 hours
14K: 24” in 48 hours
Base Camp: 18” in 24 hours
Weather
Rangers reported widespread natural avalanches in the 14K basin Friday morning following the storm. The forecast is calling for rain and snow from Base Camp to 14K on Saturday.
Avalanche Hazards
It is essential for climbing teams to factor in avalanche hazards after loading events. Much of the West Buttress route is exposed to avalanche terrain, and there is currently potential for encountering storm slabs that did not run naturally during the storm. Standard practice is to allow 24-48 hours after a loading event to allow the snow to settle. Moving into the next weather system, there is ample snow available for transport at all elevations, with rain and snow expected from Base Camp to 14,000 feet. This will mean that different avalanche problems will occur at varying elevations, and climbers will need to reassess the hazards continually.
14,000’ Basin 6/27. Photos/C. Bomba
Conditions Report
14K Patrol #6 Davis reported on Friday midday that the snow was waist-deep at Windy Corner. Guide, VIP, and current sitting Base Camp Manager Madelyn Ferdock reported that the snow on the lower Kahiltna had been isothermal before the storm. After receiving approximately 18” of snow, there is now a punchy layer of snow on top.
Base Camp 6/27. Photos/M Ferdock
Patrol Reports
Patrol Teams are on the move Friday.
14K Patrol #6 Davis and team are skiing down to Base Camp today, and hoping for some good skiing along the way.
14K Patrol #7 Bomba and crew Megan, Susan, and Gabby are holding down camp at 14,200’
14K Patrol #7 Ranger Chelsea Bomba, VIP and Base Camp Manager Gabby Faurot, Chip Faurot sending the team off, Med VIP Susan Goodwin, and VIP Megan Dannenberg.
14K Patrol #8 Dossin/Kayes and VIP Colby Coombs are moving from 11K up to join Patrol #7 at 14K.