Observation Date
2/28/2022
Observer Name
S Donovan
Region
Provo » Box Elder
Location Name or Route
Box Elder
Snow Characteristics
New Snow Depth
14"
New Snow Density
Medium
Snow Surface Conditions
Powder
Red Flags
Red Flags
Collapsing
Rapid Warming
Poor Snowpack Structure
Red Flags Comments
Although there is a worrisome amount of recently buried near-surface facets, the primary layer of concern was the thin layer of surface facets that had formed on the old crusty surface. This was was the most reactive layer in column tests, but the observed new snow still wasn't cohesive enough for any propagation to occur. I did get one small collapse at ~9000' in some dense north facing trees.
A few small warm snow avalanches had occurred on thin steep South through East facing slopes.
Snow Profile
Aspect
Northeast
Elevation
9,700'
Slope Angle
24°
I was generally unable to find any propagation in the new snow even on steep test slopes. However, with multiply layers of concern still clearly in play, I was unwilling to venture out into sustained steep terrain.
Photo shows surface facets (ECTN19) and near surface facets below crust (ECTN21)
Today's Observed Danger Rating
Moderate
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
Moderate
