Lots of Spindrift III

20th February 2020

After a short freeze-thaw cycle, it was back to ‘normal’ today with frequent showers, wintry to low levels, bright spells between showers and plenty of snow transportation (spindrift) in the strong Westerly winds.  As expected, fresh windslab is building in wind sheltered locations in the lee of the wind.

I swapped snowshoes today for my bike (non e) – big mistake! Trying to cycle through deep drifts with a surface crust in places would try the patience of a saint! Equally, trying to walk through deep drifts (or deep snow covered heather, or snow covered peat hags) without snowshoes…….*@’_-**%! Needless to say, I didn’t get as far as I wanted.

A cauldron of spindrift after a passing shower. This is the area NE of Carn na Criche, Sgurr Mor and Beinn Liath Mhor Fannaich and generally lee aspects.

The summit of Beinn Liath Mhor Fannaich on the left through a haze of spindrift.

Similar shot as above, but windward slopes being scoured of snow.

Sgurr Mor and Carn na Criche in more normal light for the day, with strengthening winds ahead of an approaching shower.

Chin up with a bit of sun between snow showers.. But still battered by spindrift.

The north top of Beinn Liath Mhor Fannaich – yesterday’s venue. A bit more snow (windslab) deposited on the east face than was there yesterday. Also evidence of recent cornice collapse on the slope below the high point.. Note the spindrift blowing horizontally off the summit!

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