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Observation: Moab

Observation Date
12/30/2022
Observer Name
Ament, Nauman, Grote
Region
Moab
Location Name or Route
Brumley Ridge / Noriega’s
Red Flags
Red Flags
Wind Loading
Collapsing
Poor Snowpack Structure
Avalanche Problem #1
Problem
New Snow
Trend
Increasing Danger
Problem #1 Comments
Multiple small collapses in new snow layer while breaking trail in low angle terrain. Most likely this will persist or increase with next two rounds of snow through the weekend.
Avalanche Problem #2
Problem
Persistent Weak Layer
Trend
Same
Problem #2 Comments
We did not dig today, but many ski pole probes into the snowpack revealed loose, poorly structured layers under the supportable new snow layer on S, W, and NW aspects. Boot penetration was at least knee deep when stepping off skis.
Comments
The new layer of higher density snow this week has made for a fast and supportable snow surface. Wind loading on N aspects at treeline is a good reminder that those slopes should not be trusted. (See photo) We did not observe any natural avalanches in Corkscrew Glades or Dory Canyon.
Today's Observed Danger Rating
Considerable
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
Considerable
Coordinates