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Observation: Butler Fork

Observation Date
3/18/2018
Observer Name
Caitlin Willard
Region
Salt Lake » Big Cottonwood Canyon » Butler Fork
Location Name or Route
West Saddle of Butler Fork/ Circle Awl
Weather
Sky
Overcast
Precipitation
Light Snowfall
Wind Direction
West
Wind Speed
Moderate
Weather Comments
Weather was generally calm with overcast skies in the morning. Temperatures dropped and wind speeds increased later through the day. Moderate westerly winds which averaged about 15 mph (with gusts up to 20 mph) brought in precipitation with periods of light snow fall and graupel in the afternoon.
Snow Characteristics
New Snow Depth
7"
New Snow Density
Low
Snow Surface Conditions
Powder
Snow Characteristics Comments
New snow in lower protected areas was light in density and had dendrite characteristics (35 cm in depth). Yesterday's storm seemed to be settling and small snow cones were observed around the bases of trees and twigs. The snow developed wind slab characteristics with loading on East facing aspects at higher elevations around 8,600 ft. Conversely West facing slopes showed signs of wind affect. Winds blew in light to moderate snowfall throughout the afternoon with a short period of graupel around 12:30 PM.
Red Flags
Red Flags
Wind Loading
Red Flags Comments
Attempted a cornice cut on a small feature located at the West Saddle of Butler just North of Circle Awl peak around 12 PM. Test showed no signs of failure. Performed the same test around 3 PM and were able to trigger a micro slab release 2" deep.
Avalanche Problem #1
Problem
Wind Drifted Snow
Trend
Increasing Danger
Problem #1 Comments
Due to the higher than expected winds, East facing slopes became more dangerous throughout the day with new loading.
Avalanche Problem #2
Problem
Persistent Weak Layer
Trend
Same
Problem #2 Comments
Due to previous knowledge, a deep persistent slab still exists in higher elevations and should still be of concern on N/NE aspects.
Today's Observed Danger Rating
Moderate
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
Moderate
Coordinates