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Observation: Peterson Hollow

Observation Date
12/18/2022
Observer Name
Richie Schumacher
Region
Logan » Franklin Basin » Peterson Hollow
Location Name or Route
Peterson hollow
Weather
Sky
Clear
Wind Speed
Calm
Snow Characteristics
Snow Surface Conditions
Powder
Wind Crust
Snow Characteristics Comments
Mostly soft new snow, with some surface hoar and soft wind crust in isolated areas. Snow surface seemed to be getting some sun and thickening slightly by the end of the day.
Red Flags
Red Flags
Wind Loading
Collapsing
Poor Snowpack Structure
Red Flags Comments
Had one large collapse while standing in an open flat area on an East slope at 8300’. The area that settled was approximately the size of a football field (can see approximate size of area in background of picture #2). We had been standing in that spot for several minutes (looking at the surface hoar/wind crust combo in picture #2) when one of our party took a step and triggered the collapse and whumpf. More wind effect was seen in this area (with 1F- drifts like in picture #1 breaking 1-2’ deep). Both 0.3-0.5mm surface hoar (picture #2) noted on north and east aspects at 8000-8500’.
Today's Observed Danger Rating
Moderate
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
Moderate