15 Feet of Snow in 2 Weeks: Chile's Andes Are Going Off | It's Always Winter Somewhere Ep. 3

Craig Gordon is back with another episode of It's Always Winter Somewhere, and this time he's talking with DPS ambassador Caleb Merrill of Wallowa Backcountry Guides. Caleb's heading to Chile for six weeks, and the timing couldn't be better: the Central Andes just got hit with 15 to 17 feet of snow in Portillo after a dry start to the season. Craig and Caleb dig into what's driving the current pattern, how aspect works differently in the southern hemisphere (polar vs. solar slopes flip below the equator), what rain crusts mean for the snowpack, and where to find reliable regional avalanche forecasting in Chile and Argentina, including the new Andes Avalanche Center. They also cover trip logistics for anyone considering a South America ski trip for the first time, plus what's in Caleb's quiver for the season: the Pagoda CFL 105, Pagoda CFL 112, and Kaizen 105. Want to connect with Caleb or check out his guided trips in the Wallowas or Chile? Website: www.wallowabackcountryguides.com Instagram: @wallowabackcountryguides