Observation: Lake Desolation

Observation Date

1/5/2021

Observer Name

Dakot

Region

Salt Lake » Big Cottonwood Canyon » Mill D North » Lake Desolation

Location Name or Route

Desolation Lake

Red Flags

Recent Avalanches

Wind Loading

Cracking

Collapsing

Poor Snowpack Structure

Avalanche Problem #1

Problem

New Snow

Trend

Same

Problem #1 Comments

Combination of new snow and wind created some really scary conditions. Even on low angle terrain. Lots of cracking.

Avalanche Problem #2

Problem

Wind Drifted Snow

Trend

Same

Problem #2 Comments

Wind loading was also an issue today on leeward slopes. Making the entire compass have problems.

Comments

Scary stuff out there today. Lots of wind mixed with new snow made for lots of cracking and some crowns seen from a far.

Today's Observed Danger Rating

High

Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating

Considerable