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Observation: Brighton Perimeter

Observation Date
2/17/2014
Observer Name
Brackelsberg
Region
Salt Lake » Big Cottonwood Canyon » Brighton Perimeter
Location Name or Route
Brighton Perimeter (Preston Peak)
Weather
Sky
Scattered
Wind Speed
Moderate
Weather Comments
Strong ridge top winds were transporting lots of snow.
Snow Characteristics
New Snow Depth
2"
New Snow Density
Medium
Snow Surface Conditions
Dense Loose
Snow Characteristics Comments
My observation was in a very wind affected area. The snow was wind blown and packed in fairly tight.
Red Flags
Red Flags
Wind Loading
Poor Snowpack Structure
Avalanche Problem #1
Problem
Persistent Weak Layer
Trend
Same
Problem #1 Comments
We had very good results in our stability tests showing a poor structure, high propagation, and low friction. The snow seemed to have high strength required a lot of force on the ECT and CT tests. The lower snow pack exhibited 4-5 lemons.
Avalanche Problem #2
Problem
Persistent Weak Layer
Problem #2 Comments
I was in a wind loaded area, but found sensitive wind slabs with a graupel layer sandwiched between them. This shows a good structure with moderate strength and had high friction with low propagation.
Snow Profile
Aspect
East
Elevation
10,200'
Slope Angle
25°
Today's Observed Danger Rating
High
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
Considerable
Coordinates