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Observation: Little Water

Observation Date
12/14/2022
Observer Name
Manship, Collett
Region
Salt Lake » Big Cottonwood Canyon » Mill D North » Little Water
Location Name or Route
Little Water
Weather
Sky
Overcast
Precipitation
Light Snowfall
Wind Direction
Northwest
Wind Speed
Light
Weather Comments
It was lightly snowing almost all day S-1 to S1. Winds where very light, gusting to moderate on the peaks. The clouds cleared up around 1700.
Snow Characteristics
New Snow Density
Low
Snow Surface Conditions
Powder
Snow Characteristics Comments
Excellent riding conditions on all aspects.
Red Flags
Red Flags
Heavy Snowfall
Wind Loading
Poor Snowpack Structure
Red Flags Comments
Noted some slab development on S and SE slopes along ridge lines with a soft slab developing. Did not see any in your face signs of instability, but with a little digging or poking you pole in the snow you can feel the structure is there.
Snow Profile
Aspect
North
Elevation
9,300'
Slope Angle
11°
Comments
In our pit we got an ECTP @65cm from the ground on the November drought layer. Looking at this layer I did see some crystals showing signs of rounding.
The new snow seemed to be well bonded to the snow it fell on and I did not notice and significant density changes in this new snow.
Photo 1 below is the column.
Photo 2 of crystals that are showing some rounding edges.
We also noted some rime build up on trees facing the recent NW winds. It did not seem to be affecting the snow surface. (Photos below)
There was a small slab starting to build on ridge lines on S and SE slopes but seemed to be pretty isolated to the ridge lines. (3rd photo below)
Overall stunning Wasatch day.
Today's Observed Danger Rating
Considerable
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
Considerable
Coordinates