10/08/2018 NSW Main Range

FIELD OBSERVATIONS
The temps have be warm over the past few days. There is a melt freeze crust on the the surface and 60cm of new snow under that. That new snow is sitting on a 5cm layer of graupel sitting on a solid melt freeze layer from the last rain event. in that 60cm new snow layer there is buried surface hoar @20cm. We got CTE 2 SP @20cm on buried surface hoar. We also got CTE 9 SC @61cm on the buried graupel. No results from deep tap test .
We also got a ECTP 3 @ 20cm on the buried surface hoar. This means that we will have propagating slabs in the backcountry on loaded lee aspects on steeper terrain. 
OUTLOOK
There is a large storm due to hit late Friday night but will start with rain and then turn to snow. Fingers crossed this bonds well to the melt / slush layer from today's warm temps. This added weight on the snowpack will most likely see natural avalanches on steep loaded terrain as the buried surface hoar will be very touchy.
Stay in simple terrain and steer clear of terrain traps and natural hang fire while skiing and touring. Let this storm cycle move through and enjoy the touring early in the new week.