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Observation: Rodeo Ridge

Observation Date
1/14/2024
Observer Name
Derek DeBruin
Region
Ogden » Ben Lomond » Rodeo Ridge
Location Name or Route
Ben Lomond, Rodeo Ridge
Weather
Weather Comments
Winds were altogether pretty light at low elevation this morning. There was a break in the snow from about 1000 to 1100 before more rimed stellars started to fall. The break yielded some moderate visibility for avalanche viewing.
Snow Characteristics
Snow Characteristics Comments
With the high density snow from the evening/overnight storm, I was expecting to punch through to the softer, older surface snow from yesterday. However, this was not the case, as the older snow was sufficiently wind affected to prove geneally supportive for the new snow for travel without punching through.
Red Flags
Red Flags
Recent Avalanches
Heavy Snowfall
Wind Loading
Cracking
Collapsing
Poor Snowpack Structure
Red Flags Comments
Went for a low angle walkabout to see about getting far away and impersonal with overnight avalanches, which did not disappoint. Managed to see three D2 slides, though the relatively low cloud ceiling and flat light prevented a thorough inspection. I imagine there were many crowns in the Chilly Peak slabs we just couldn't see well. See other obs for details. Also had some of the most significant collapsing I've experienced. It felt like someone just moved the earth 2 inches away underfoot, sounded like distant artillery, looked like powder dust settling back to rest atop the snow surface in its new, lower position, tasted like dry mouth, and smelled like fear sweats. This happened multiple times. Unsettling. Also, ECTP30 at E facing at 5800ft, 90cm down on the PWL at the crust.
Today's Observed Danger Rating
None
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
None
Coordinates