UDOT PLANNED AVALANCHE CLOSURES!!
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Observation: Moab

Observation Date
1/2/2015
Observer Name
Scott Watson
Region
Moab
Location Name or Route
North Creek, Abajo Mountains
Weather
Sky
Clear
Wind Direction
North
Wind Speed
Light
Weather Comments
Clear day at elevation above 9000'.
Snow Characteristics
New Snow Depth
10"
New Snow Density
Medium
Snow Surface Conditions
Dense Loose
Snow Characteristics Comments
Storms have failed to produce any appreciable snowpack. There is 10" at the parking lot at Dalton Springs. There is 20" in areas protected from the wind at the lowere switchback in North Creek. The snow pit was dug south of the road in the trees near the upper switchback toward the pass. There is roughly 36" of snow in the trees near the top of North Creek and "20 in the open. There is a prominent Rain-Rime Crust mid snowpack from a wet storm which occurred mid December.
Red Flags
Red Flags
Wind Loading
Red Flags Comments
Wind has transported snow from the exposed slopes to the ridge tops creating wind slab deposits. Current low risk of slides in the snowpack, increasing as colder temperatures and a forecasted lull in storms could cause a faceted loose layer to establish before the next storm. Minimal snow cover to fully enjoy travel and play off trail.
Avalanche Problem #1
Problem
Persistent Weak Layer
Trend
Decreasing Danger
Problem #1 Comments
High winds have transported moderately dense snow to the usual locations along the top third of the leeward slope in north creek.
Snow Profile
Aspect
North
Elevation
10,300'
Slope Angle
22°
Comments
The best route of access is the roadway as insufficient snowpack limits off trail travel in the north creek area.
Today's Observed Danger Rating
Low
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
Low
Coordinates