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Observation: Weber Canyon

Observation Date
1/20/2018
Observer Name
B: WP Level 2
Region
Uintas » Upper Weber Canyon » Weber Canyon
Location Name or Route
Western Uintas/Weber Canyon
Weather
Sky
Obscured
Precipitation
Moderate Snowfall
Wind Direction
Northeast
Wind Speed
Light
Weather Comments
Temperatures low teens. Winds were initially NE and shifted to the NW. Wind blown and transport was light. Periods of heavy to moderate throughout most day. Skies remained cloudy.
Snow Characteristics
New Snow Depth
10"
New Snow Density
Low
Snow Surface Conditions
Powder
Wind Crust
Snow Characteristics Comments

Afternoon winds adversely effects snow surface even at mid elevations, and as a result riding was a bit inverted and slower than hoped.

Red Flags
Red Flags
Heavy Snowfall
Wind Loading
Cracking
Collapsing
Poor Snowpack Structure
Red Flags Comments
Isolated cracking and collapsing observed. Poor snowpack structure still a concern.
Avalanche Problem #1
Problem
Persistent Weak Layer
Trend
Same
Problem #1 Comments

Various pit results:

9300, NNW, 25 degrees, HS: 105 cm, 46 up: CTH, SP, ECTP 24 SP

9500, NNE, 19 degrees, HS: 100 cm, 26 down: CT17, SP

Avalanche Problem #2
Problem
Wind Drifted Snow
Trend
Increasing Danger
Problem #2 Comments

See above, and very likely at upper elevations. Due to sustained upper elevation winds, this problem may increase by Sunday.

Of Note: Storm Slab appeared possible due to snow pit test scores indicating weaknesses at new snow/old snow interface. And also of concern would be the settlement of the new snow into a more cohesive slab layer.

Danger only in areas traveled appeared Moderate for Persistent Slabs due to the poor snowpack structure as well possible Wind Slabs.

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