Observation Date
4/4/2023
Observer Name
Staples & Anderson
Region
Provo » Snake Creek » Ant Knolls
Location Name or Route
Snake Creek/Ant Knolls area
Weather
Sky
Overcast
Precipitation
Light Snowfall
Weather Comments
This area is in a bit of a rain shadow from the lake effect and NW flow. The sun was shining through the clouds occasionally.
Snow Characteristics
New Snow Depth
12"
New Snow Density
Low
Snow Surface Conditions
Powder
Snow Characteristics Comments
About a foot of new snow depending on elevation.
Red Flags
Red Flags
Recent Avalanches
Heavy Snowfall
Red Flags Comments
The main red flags are coming from other areas with heavy snowfall and avalanche activity.
Avalanche Problem #1
Problem
New Snow
Trend
Same
Problem #1 Comments
With less new snow in this area, there was less danger. We saw almost no signs that the new snow would fracture as a soft slab.
Avalanche Problem #2
Problem
Wind Drifted Snow
Trend
Same
Problem #2 Comments
There were widespread drifts all along the groomed snowmobile trail. We never encoutered any soft slabs of wind drifted snow that could avalanche, BUT we didn't go near any along ridgelines. Drifting along the road told me that we could find them if we wanted to.
Comments
Overall, we saw no signs of instability (though we avoided any wind loaded places). With less new snow in this area, it seemed well bonded and well behaved.
Photos below from pits 9000-9400 feet on E and SE aspects. Last photo of the sun trying to poke through the clouds in the Mayflower/Jordanelle area.
Today's Observed Danger Rating
Considerable
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
Considerable
Coordinates
