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Observation: Weber Canyon

Observation Date
12/20/2023
Observer Name
Craig Gordon/Trevor Katz
Region
Uintas » Weber Canyon
Location Name or Route
Upper Weber Canyon
Weather
Sky
Overcast
Wind Direction
Southeast
Wind Speed
Calm
Weather Comments
Damp, humid weather and mild temperatures. Felt a lot like spring... without the deep snowpack.
Snow Characteristics
New Snow Depth
1"
New Snow Density
High
Snow Surface Conditions
Dense Loose
Damp
Snow Characteristics Comments
Shrink-wrapped surface snow, especially on southerlies.. Punchy/trapdoor snow on the northerlies, especially where the snowpack rests on terrain features like rocks, stumps, or deadfall.
Red Flags
Red Flags
Poor Snowpack Structure
Red Flags Comments
Shallow snow in rocky terrain is sandboxing
Avalanche Problem #1
Problem
Persistent Weak Layer
Trend
Same
Problem #1 Comments
The PWL remains dormant for the time being. However, don't forget, our mid pack Dec.1st-3rd storm slab rests on a weak layer of facets. And while stability tests and lack of avalanche activity suggest this interface is dormant for the moment, we're still seeing clean propagation (ECTP 22) though test results aren't as energetic as last last week. For right now the pack is happy in it's own skin. With a substantial load of SWE, the pack is gonna get cranky.
Snow Profile
Aspect
Northeast
Elevation
9,600'
Slope Angle
44°
Today's Observed Danger Rating
Low
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
Low
Coordinates