Drifting
27th March 2024
Due to the ongoing dynamic weather situation, it was always going to be interesting to see how much fresh snow had been deposited on the hills overnight, and how much was being redistributed. The answer – very little fresh snow had fallen in the locations visited. Although given the localised nature of the intensity of the snow, there may have been greater deposits elsewhere within the Creag Meagaidh area. There was significant drifting of lying snow above 850 metres, as it was being redistributed into wind sheltered locations.
While it was mainly dry during the time on the hill, continuous snowfall commenced for an hour or so late afternoon once back at base.
Today started with fresh snow falling to all levels and strong Easterly winds. At this time there was limited visibility to see what was happening in the hills.
As it cleared it was evident that the overnight snow was minimal in extent, particularly at lower levels. The widespread crust on the surface of the old snow is still present, and it was not always weight bearing, sometimes breaking through suddenly to wet ground underneath. Caution required if crossing any remaining firm snow bridges over water. They might not prove to be as firm as they feel on first inspection.
There were moments when it looked a snow shower was approaching, but rarely did any precipitation arrive, resulting in a mainly dry day on the hill. However, above 850 metres, drifting was evident. The existing soft unconsolidated snow from the last 24 hours was being redistributed into wind sheltered locations.
One of the clearer moments with a view across Coire an t-Slugain to Meall a’ Chaorainn Mòr (892m).
Cracking in fresh unstable windslab, on a Westerly aspect, that was developing on top of soft unconsolidated snow.
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