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Observation: Mill A

Observation Date
1/27/2018
Observer Name
Kosinski
Region
Salt Lake » Big Cottonwood Canyon » Mill A
Location Name or Route
Mt. Raymond/Mill A
Weather
Sky
Overcast
Wind Speed
Calm
Weather Comments
Beautiful day for skiing. Warm down low, cool with a little breeze up high. Minimal solar radiation from overcast skies.
Snow Characteristics
New Snow Depth
4"
New Snow Density
Low
Snow Surface Conditions
Powder
Snow Characteristics Comments
The top few inches were traditional Utah powder. Very light and low density.
Red Flags
Red Flags
Collapsing
Red Flags Comments
Localized collapsing in areas down low as well as on the ridge line.
Avalanche Problem #1
Problem
Wind Drifted Snow
Trend
Decreasing Danger
Problem #1 Comments
This problem is extremely variable. There were places on the mountain where I stepped and immediately had a bad feeling. In general though, very solid snowpack. It is important to know the aspects and wind direction; this is the way to manage avalanche issues at upper elevations.
Avalanche Problem #2
Problem
Cornice
Trend
Increasing Danger
Problem #2 Comments
There is starting to be some cornice formation with the new snow and winds varying over the last few days. The ridge line cornice ranged from 0" to 3'. There were two smaller cornice fall avalanches that appeared to have occurred during the last storm cycle. Remember: cornices will break farther back than expected. Translation: do not skin 1' away from a 3' tall cornice.
Snow Profile
Aspect
Northwest
Elevation
9,900'
Slope Angle
24°
Comments
The snowpack structure varies significantly by location. I would urge caution in areas where you are setting the skin track or there are high consequences if something goes wrong. Overall I thought the snowpack was very solid but there were a few spots where I could hear how hollow the snow was and it immediately gave me a bad taste. I did not have any pictures today since the light was flat, therefore they don't show much.
Today's Observed Danger Rating
Moderate
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
Moderate
Coordinates