Received about 10cm of new low density snow overnight at 8800.’ (The ants were in the #whiteroom). Light snow throughout the day with the skies beginning to break around 1600, no wind. Interestingly on our second lap today on the skin track that was established yesterday (7th traveler) we experienced subsequent rumbling collapses (three large collapses within 300ft). This was on a ridge with minimal wind affect and relatively shallow snowpack (~45cm). Cracking was noted in close proximity, however the low density snow above and flat light made it difficult to determine the true distribution of the cracking.
The collapsing this late on an already well established track was a bit interesting. In my understanding the nature of a persistent stab instability is the result of achieving an adequate load to initiate failure of the layer, not a progressive compressive failure. I am postulating this is a factor of the very stubborn and unpredictable nature of both persistent weak layers. Their presence since the beginning of the month without a significant degree of loading has made them less reactive, however the instability is still apparent. Any other insights regarding the nature of this instability SNFAC crew?