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Observation: Copleys Canyon

Observation Date
1/20/2018
Observer Name
Toddeo
Region
Southwest » Pahvant Range » Chalk Creek » Copleys Canyon
Location Name or Route
Pahvants - Copleys Canyon
Weather
Sky
Obscured
Precipitation
Moderate Snowfall
Wind Direction
West
Wind Speed
Moderate
Weather Comments
A break midday, PI picked up late afternoon to 1" per hour at least (S2). Rimed forms.
Snow Characteristics
New Snow Depth
6"
New Snow Density
Medium
Snow Surface Conditions
Powder
Damp
Snow Characteristics Comments

Powder on a damp base where it fell on bare dirt. Well bonded where it fell on snow. Note: I only got to 6,500' could be different up high. Late day event was slightly denser with a minor inversion.

Red Flags
Red Flags
Heavy Snowfall
Wind Loading
Red Flags Comments
Enough wind and high PI to make me think that the upper elevations may have an increased hazard in SW UT.
Avalanche Problem #1
Problem
New Snow
Trend
Same
Problem #1 Comments

Speculation on my part that there would be increased hazard related to the new snow in the upper elevations.

Avalanche Problem #2
Problem
Normal Caution
Problem #2 Comments

Normal caution for a thin snow pack.

Comments

No snow profile today.

Photos below:

1. Rimed dendrite, best I could do with an iphone.

2. Travel conditions @6,500', late afternoon snow smoothed over the sled tracks nicely.

I spoke with some sledders who made it into the high country on the Chalk Creek Road, They said it was too rocky and needs at least a foot more of snow.

Snotel sites in SW Utah as of 4 pm are showing a consistent 7 to 8" of snow with Brian head the winner with 10".

Pahvants:

Pine Creek- 8",

Bob's Hollow - 4",

Tushers:

Kimberley Mine - 7",

Big Flat - 7",

Brian Head:

Brian Head 10",

Webster Flat - 7"

I would guess that a considerable hazard in the upper elevations is warranted.

If anyone wants to get in touch with me about snow/avalanche questions in SW Utah, I can be reached at [email protected]. I would be happy to walk anyone through the observation process. All observations are appreciated.

Video below of rimed forms falling late in the day.

Today's Observed Danger Rating
Considerable
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
Considerable