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Observation: Snake Creek

Observation Date
1/10/2024
Observer Name
B
Region
Provo » Snake Creek
Location Name or Route
Snake Creek
Weather
Sky
Overcast
Precipitation
Moderate Snowfall
Wind Direction
Southeast
Wind Speed
Moderate
Weather Comments
Sustained Moderate SSE Winds with Strong Gusts. Moderate to Intense Blowing Snow/Transport.
Snow Characteristics
New Snow Depth
12"
New Snow Density
Medium
Snow Surface Conditions
Powder
Wind Crust
Snow Characteristics Comments
Winds associated the latest event have not only created reactive Wind Slabs in steep terrain, but their turbulance also aided in riming the new snow and graupel. Depsite the denser, and sometimes upside-down nature of this storm, riding was very good except on the wind scoured ridgelines.
Red Flags
Red Flags
Heavy Snowfall
Wind Loading
Cracking
Collapsing
Poor Snowpack Structure
Red Flags Comments
Of note, Widespread Collapsing observed on 23 to 25 degree SE aspects from 9300 to 10300. The December facets were failing under a 1 to 1.5 cm m/f crust. 5 to 7 cm of new snow fell between 0800 and 1400.
Avalanche Problem #1
Problem
Persistent Weak Layer
Trend
Increasing Danger
Problem #1 Comments
The December facet layers, that were buried on 20231220 and 20231223, appear to be Widespread; and this Persistent Slab Problem may become more reactive over the next 24 hours.
Avalanche Problem #2
Problem
Wind Drifted Snow
Trend
Increasing Danger
Problem #2 Comments
Due to the Strong to Extreme Winds, the Wind Slabs observed in the Alpine were mostly Stubborn. Yet, no steep slopes with angles greater than around 30 degrees were tested. With additional loading from new snow and the WNW forecast winds, this problem will likely escalate.
If the forecast verifies on the high end, and SWE totals make to 2 inches we may see the Danger rise to High.
Today's Observed Danger Rating
Considerable
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
High
Coordinates