Observation: Alexander Basin

Observation Date
11/19/2019
Observer Name
Grainger
Region
Salt Lake » Mill Creek Canyon » Alexander Basin
Location Name or Route
Alexander Basin
Weather
Wind Direction
Southwest
Wind Speed
Light
Weather Comments
Light but increasing SSW winds with moderate gusts, more consistent on ridges.
Snow Characteristics
Snow Surface Conditions
Faceted Loose
Melt-Freeze Crust
Snow Characteristics Comments
Intended to look at coverage on the Millcreek/BCC ridgeline with the assumption that old October snow gets covered by tomorrow's small storm. Overall coverage is minimal but sheltered NNW-NE aspects above ~8800' have a consistent 25-40cm HS. These slopes have continued to facet throughout the high pressure and will provide a weak, unstructured base for the coming snow.
The shallower angled pitches that have seen direct sun have developed a 1cm 1F M/F crust with weak facets underneath that will be a questionable interface with coming precip. The steeper of these pitches above ~9000' have remained protected and weak facets are present from the surface down.
If the full forecasted SWE materializes from this low over SW UT, I think (on the Oct. snow interface) natural loose dry activity is possible in steeper terrain and isolated shallow soft slabs will be possible to trigger, particularly in areas affected by the anticipated Southerly/SE winds.
Red Flags
Red Flags
Poor Snowpack Structure
Video
Today's Observed Danger Rating
Low
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
Moderate
Coordinates