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Observation: Pre-Laurel Peak

Observation Date
3/10/2024
Observer Name
weed, pagnucco
Region
Moab » Laurel Highway » Pre-Laurel Peak
Location Name or Route
Pre-Laural Peak--North Woods
Weather
Sky
Few
Wind Direction
North
Wind Speed
Light
Weather Comments
Lovely day all around
Snow Characteristics
Snow Surface Conditions
Powder
Melt-Freeze Crust
Snow Characteristics Comments
Shallow powder conditions were quite nice, smooth, and fast on slopes facing the north half of the compass.
Avalanche Problem #1
Problem
Wind Drifted Snow
Trend
Same
Problem #1 Comments
We noticed one recent small wind slab avalanche that was probably a natural release on a very steep, mostly west-facing slope.
Avalanche Problem #2
Problem
Persistent Weak Layer
Trend
Same
Problem #2 Comments
Dormant PWL(s) could come back to life if(when) slopes with shallow sugary snow are loaded by new snow or drifting. Future avalanches failing on depth hoar would probably be pockety in nature.
Snow Profile
Aspect
West
Elevation
11,500'
Slope Angle
23°
Comments
In the North Trees, north facing at 10600' on a 28° slope
We found areas with shallow snow to be very weak, even in sunny terrain. In these areas the most of the snowpack is plagued by depth hoar, very large well developed faceted grains
It was a somewhat unique and thrilling experience to ski through the burnt trees.
Today's Observed Danger Rating
Low
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
Low
Coordinates