UDOT PLANNED AVALANCHE CLOSURES!!
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Observation: Moab

Observation Date
2/9/2014
Observer Name
Ed Oak
Region
Moab
Location Name or Route
Laurel Highway, Northwoods
Weather
Sky
Obscured
Precipitation
Moderate Snowfall
Wind Direction
Southwest
Wind Speed
Strong
Weather Comments
Heavy snowfall at Geyser Pass Trailhead at noon today. Snowfall tapered off by about 3:00 pm? Strong winds out of the Southwest. Partial whiteout fog during this time that cleared by 4:00 pm.
Snow Characteristics
New Snow Depth
4"
New Snow Density
High
Snow Surface Conditions
Dense Loose
Snow Characteristics Comments
Light wind slab snow decent turning but heavy.
Red Flags
Red Flags
Heavy Snowfall
Wind Loading
Cracking
Collapsing
Red Flags Comments
Lots of settlement and cracks propagating from about a foot away from ski tracks.
Avalanche Problem #1
Problem
Persistent Weak Layer
Trend
Increasing Danger
Problem #1 Comments
Lots of snow being transported and a cohesive surface slab.
Avalanche Problem #2
Problem
Persistent Weak Layer
Trend
Decreasing Danger
Problem #2 Comments
Seems to be a buried crust layer with facets above and below it according to other skier who dug a pit on a north slope at the top of North woods.
Today's Observed Danger Rating
Considerable
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
Considerable