All signs indicate we are moving in the right direction with the persistent weak layer (PWL) problem: the slab on top of the PWL is strong and in most places, over 3' deep; the PWL is also gaining strength. We are seeing fewer collapses and fewer avalanches on the PWL.
What continues to get my attention are thinner snowpack areas where it is easier to trigger an avalanche failing in the PWL (photo below).
Wednesday's avalanche in East Bowl of Silver Fork highlights this kind of terrain: steep, rocky, with a thinner snowpack. You can read more on my thoughts of the PWL problem from my
field day on Thursday. Although this was from the Salt Lake mountains, it is nonetheless relevant for the Ogden region on slopes with a thinner snowpack.
If you choose to venture into steeper terrain:
- Continually evaluate the snowpack looking for thinner areas where it is easier to trigger an avalanche in the PWL.
- Avoid steep, rocky slopes where the snowpack is likely to be thinner.
- Back off of steep slopes when red flags are present, such as collapsing or recent avalanches.
