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Observation: Moab

Observation Date
1/8/2022
Observer Name
Kennard, Grote
Region
Moab
Location Name or Route
Laurel Ridge
Weather
Sky
Obscured
Precipitation
Moderate Snowfall
Wind Direction
Northwest
Wind Speed
Light
Weather Comments
We didn't expect to get much, if any thing out of this storm, but were pleasantly surprised to find 2" in the parking lot this morning. We had moderate snow fall for the next 2 hours leaving us with 5" on the storm total stake at the Gold Basin study plot. Winds were light all day making for some great skiing conditions.
Snow Characteristics
New Snow Depth
5"
New Snow Density
Low
Snow Surface Conditions
Powder
Snow Characteristics Comments
The 5" of new snow gave a nice refresh to the conditions in the north woods. Winds below treeline were light from the northwest and for the most part did not affect the new snow. The warm sunny conditions experienced earlier in the week gave sunny south and west aspects a crust that can be felt underneath the new snow.
Red Flags
Red Flags
Poor Snowpack Structure
Red Flags Comments
We did not experience any red flags in the new snow that fell, it appeared to bond well to the older snow. Unfortunately our current snow pack is still sitting on top of sugary facets left from the early snow fall this fall.
Avalanche Problem #1
Problem
Persistent Weak Layer
Trend
Same
Problem #1 Comments
Facets from the fall snow storms are still present and should be treated with respect. Stay off of steep north facing terrain for now.
Avalanche Problem #2
Problem
Wind Drifted Snow
Trend
Same
Problem #2 Comments
If winds pick up this evening or tomorrow expect to find new deposits of wind drifted snow. Triggering one of these on a steep slope could step down to the week base layer creating a larger slide. Wind slabs from the previous storm could also still be a problem on steeper slope as well.
Today's Observed Danger Rating
Moderate
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
Moderate