Observation Date
11/27/2015
Observer Name
Kobernik
Region
Skyline » Spring City Canyon
Location Name or Route
Spring City Canyon
Weather
Sky
Overcast
Precipitation
Moderate Snowfall
Wind Direction
East
Wind Speed
Light
Weather Comments
Light to moderate snowfall in the afternoon. .5 to 1 inch per hour. Wind speeds were very light even right on top of the most exposed ridges.
Snow Characteristics
New Snow Depth
6"
New Snow Density
Low
Snow Surface Conditions
Powder
Snow Characteristics Comments
Low density new snow otherwise known as powder.
Red Flags
Red Flags
Collapsing
Poor Snowpack Structure
Red Flags Comments
Neither of these red flags were an immediate threat. I experienced a couple localized collapses but this was due to the hollowness around bushes. This is pretty common in the early season.
Poor snowpack structure is more of a concern for down the road. The 6 inches of new low density snow was still much weaker than the older faceted snow. In other words, there is no slab, everything is right side up with stronger snow at the base and the weakest snow on the surface. However, we will continue to pay attention to the buried faceted snow.
Comments
This was my first real field day out on the Manti Skyline. I was pleasantly surprised by what I found. I had anticipated a much weaker snowpack. I suspect the area I visited is not representative of the majority of the terrain. After a few more outings, I should have a handle on the spatial variability of the snowpack along the Skyline.
Video
Today's Observed Danger Rating
Low
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
Low
