UDOT PLANNED AVALANCHE CLOSURES!!
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Observation: La Sal Mountains

Observation Date
1/16/2014
Observer Name
Trenbeath
Region
Moab » La Sal Mountains
Location Name or Route
Mount Mellenthin via NW ridge
Weather
Sky
Clear
Wind Direction
Northeast
Wind Speed
Moderate
Weather Comments
Calm winds below tree line. Dramatic increase with elevation. 30-50 mph above about 11,500'.
Snow Characteristics
Snow Surface Conditions
Dense Loose
Faceted Loose
Wind Crust
Melt-Freeze Crust
Snow Characteristics Comments

Definite mixed bag. Extremely hammered snow surface in exposed areas, especially from N winds. Breakable to very hard wind crusts and sastrugi. Scoured to rocks in some areas, especially along ridge crests. Melt freeze crusts on sunny aspects, some settled, re-crystallized powder i very sheltered areas.

Red Flags
Red Flags
Poor Snowpack Structure
Red Flags Comments
Snow pack continues to deteriorate however, NE-N-NW ridgecrests, as well as some entire slopes have experienced severe wind scouring. Persistent slabs over riding weak snow are isolated and are found far below ridgecrests or beneath rock bands. Mid elevation snow pack is being taken over entirely by facets.
Avalanche Problem #1
Problem
New Snow
Problem #1 Comments

Isolated, located well below ridge crests and beneath rock bands in areas that have deeper snow on northerly aspects.

Avalanche Problem #2
Problem
Wet Snow
Problem #2 Comments

Loose facet avalanches are possible on steep, northerly terrain at mid elevations.

Today's Observed Danger Rating
Low
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
Low