Observation Date
12/17/2015
Observer Name
Dave Garcia
Region
Moab
Location Name or Route
Julie's, North Woods, and Lower Gold Basin
Weather
Sky
Few
Wind Direction
West
Wind Speed
Moderate
Weather Comments
Winds were primarily from the west and southwest. Moderate to strong winds confined to ridge tops only. No wind below ridge lines.
Snow Characteristics
New Snow Depth
12"
New Snow Density
Low
Snow Surface Conditions
Powder
Dense Loose
Snow Characteristics Comments
The two feet has settled almost a full foot. Pits revealed about 12" of rounded snow on top of old surface. Also settlement cones as tall as 10" show settlement within the NEW snow. Still skis like nice fluffy pow, but for sure more dense than when it fell.
Red Flags
Red Flags
Recent Avalanches
Heavy Snowfall
Wind Loading
Poor Snowpack Structure
Red Flags Comments
Got a look (from a distance) at the naturals on Norriega and Tuk No. Pretty big slides. The one on Norriega showed propagation across much of the slope. Ridge top winds were cranking showing snow plumes loading east through north. Plumes off the peaks were probably landing as low as mid slope on the slopes below the ridges. Poor snowpack structure noted on a NNE aspect (see snow profile below).
Avalanche Problem #1
Problem
Wind Drifted Snow
Trend
Same
Problem #1 Comments
Ridge top winds have not died since the storm, and there is lots of light density snow available for transport. As always, be suspect of any recently loaded slope.
Avalanche Problem #2
Problem
Persistent Weak Layer
Trend
Same
Problem #2 Comments
I noted two significant weak layers in my pit on a NNE aspect (see below). I believe these layers will remain persistent for quite some time. The best method for now is avoidance and safe travel practices.
Snow Profile
Aspect
Northeast
Elevation
10,000'
Slope Angle
34°
Comments
Nice skiing on low angle west and northwest slopes. No collapsing, cracking, or whoomphing on these aspects at mid elevation. Dug a pit on the suspect aspect (NNE) near Exxon's, and found what I expected. The test results are clearly signs of instability on this aspect. CT6 Q2 and ECTP20 Q2 tell me to avoid this aspect and angle for the time being. Danger rating of Considerable below is for this aspect.
Today's Observed Danger Rating
Considerable
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
Considerable
