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Observation: Flagstaff Ridge

Observation Date
12/24/2019
Observer Name
A & B
Region
Salt Lake » Little Cottonwood Canyon » Flagstaff Ridge
Location Name or Route
Flagstaff shoulder to Cardiff Pass
Red Flags
Red Flags
Wind Loading
Cracking
Poor Snowpack Structure
Avalanche Problem #1
Problem
Wind Drifted Snow
Trend
Increasing Danger
Problem #1 Comments
Wind slab of 5 - 10cm varying in depth appeared to not hold great strength but cracked on multiple aspects. Observed on N and and S, SE facing slopes. More westerly slopes were wind scoured.
Avalanche Problem #2
Problem
Persistent Weak Layer
Trend
Same
Problem #2 Comments
Weak layer at 50cm from surface.
Snow Profile
Aspect
Southeast
Elevation
9,600'
Comments
Variable conditions today. Performed a quick ECT and CT test below and east of Toledo Chute. 1.6 to 1.8 meters of snow depth, 9800 ft, SE aspect.
No failure on ECT, CT26 released at 50cm from surface. Wind slab of 7cm beginning to strengthen.
Witnessed easily triggered cracking on N aspect of Cardiff Fork.
Today's Observed Danger Rating
Moderate
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
Moderate
Coordinates