January 9, 2018 Arctic Valley obs today. Unfortunately, still not enough #snow for reasonable #backcountry travel by #ski (i.e. shark infested waters). Gordon Lyon #snowpit (see map) at ~3900’, 303* NW aspect, ~115cm HS, 35* slope, ECTP17 Q1 at ground on depth hoar. The column popped out with a lot of energy. The #avalanche path where test was conducted has been the spot of a few close calls. It’s ripe for another if someone was to test it with their body now. Watch and listen to the video for further details. Battery issues caused some technical difficulties as a result of the cold #Arctic air that is also faceting and weakening the #snowpack. #ChugachStatePark #Anchorage #Alaska A post shared by Anchorage Avalanche Center (@anchorage_avalanche_center) on Jan 9, 2018 at 6:13pm PST