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Observation: Snowbasin Backcountry

Observation Date
12/11/2015
Observer Name
Megan Brandt, Bill Brandt, Doug Wewer
Region
Ogden » Snowbasin Backcountry
Location Name or Route
John Paul Area
Weather
Sky
Scattered
Weather Comments
Fantastic sun dogs!
Snow Characteristics
New Snow Depth
4"
New Snow Density
Medium
Snow Surface Conditions
Powder
Snow Characteristics Comments
Fair amount of graupel in new snow. Variable snow depth secondary to wind before the storm. Areas on top of JP wind scoured to the ground with 3-4" of new snow on top. Widespread basal facets on all aspects that contained old snow. On north faces at 9,000' facets were cold, dry and non-cohesive. Basal facets were warm and cohesive at lower elevations on easterly facing slopes. Variable crusts, 4F to 1F, within the snowpack due wind, temperature and rain.
Red Flags
Red Flags
Poor Snowpack Structure
Red Flags Comments
Basal facets are a very weak layer to be wary of as new snow accumulates and winter arrives.
Avalanche Problem #1
Problem
Normal Caution
Trend
Same
Problem #1 Comments
New snow will increase the load on the weak basal structure and increase avalanche danger.
Snow Profile
Aspect
North
Elevation
9,000'
Slope Angle
35°
Comments
Several layers of basal facets and interspersed crusts from the ground to the new snow.
Unusual to see this many sun dogs together. Hopefully a sign of a big storm to come.
Today's Observed Danger Rating
Low
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
Low
Coordinates