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Observation: Snowbasin Backcountry

Observation Date
12/12/2016
Observer Name
kory
Region
Ogden » Snowbasin Backcountry
Location Name or Route
Snowbasin Backcountry
Weather
Sky
Clear
Wind Direction
Southwest
Wind Speed
Moderate
Weather Comments
Winds got going in the afternoon. Cold crisp day
Snow Characteristics
New Snow Depth
2.5'
New Snow Density
Medium
Snow Surface Conditions
Powder
Wind Crust
Damp
Snow Characteristics Comments

S aspects started to get a little damp today. Most places had a thin wind skin 2-4 in thick.

Red Flags
Red Flags
Recent Avalanches
Heavy Snowfall
Wind Loading
Avalanche Problem #1
Problem
Wind Drifted Snow
Trend
Increasing Danger
Problem #1 Comments

There is still plenty of snow available for transport in exposed areas and upper elevation ridgelines.

Avalanche Problem #2
Problem
Persistent Weak Layer
Trend
Decreasing Danger
Problem #2 Comments

I was unable to get a failure on the NSF (Near surface Facets) from 12/5-7. This layer could still be active in places but I would say it is only possible for human triggered avalanches on this layer.

Comments

Good riding conditions in very protected areas. The persistent layer seems to be healing with the weight of the new snow and depth of new snow. After seeing avalanches to the ground yesterday I believe that to trigger a deep persistent slab you need a very smooth summer surface.

Lots of wind on the high elevation ridges today and tomorrow looks to be the same.

5 Star avalanche viewing still available at Snowbasin!! Here is one that Snowbasin Ski Patrol tickled out in Middle bowl cirque. (This is still out of bounds terrain. )

Natural in Hells Canyon, Toilet Bowl, seemed to be in the 2-3ft deep similar to the other naturals we have been seeing in the Ogden area.

Today's Observed Danger Rating
Considerable
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
Moderate