Observation Date
1/27/2018
Observer Name
Bill Brandt
Region
Ogden » Ben Lomond » Cutler Ridge
Location Name or Route
Cutler Ridge to Bailey Cabin
Weather
Sky
Obscured
Wind Direction
Southwest
Wind Speed
Moderate
Weather Comments
Swirling and gusting winds made it difficult to determine the predominant direction. Strong gusts on the ridge overlooking Ogden. There were several snow devils in the area below the weather station. Fairly warm afternoon except in the wind. Extensive wind damage along Cutler Ridge.
Snow Characteristics
New Snow Depth
4"
New Snow Density
Medium
Snow Surface Conditions
Powder
Wind Crust
Melt-Freeze Crust
Snow Characteristics Comments
Variable ski conditions in areas exposed to wind. An icey crust is the surface in several areas.
Red Flags
Red Flags
Wind Loading
Poor Snowpack Structure
Red Flags Comments
Basal facets are strenghening at 8600 ft on a N facing slope.
Avalanche Problem #1
Problem
Wind Drifted Snow
Trend
Same
Problem #1 Comments
Soft and moderately hard wind slabs which did not crack or collapse. I stomped on several steep rollovers with out getting any snow to move.
Avalanche Problem #2
Problem
Persistent Weak Layer
Trend
Decreasing Danger
Problem #2 Comments
Basal facets are gaining strength in the area where I dug my pit. Very weak snow in the rockband at the top of Bailey Cabin. Old avalanche, from the last big avalanche cycle, skiers right of rockband. Steep entrances to the north probably slid in the last cycle because snow depth is only 40 cm. Other areas at the top of Cutler run 120-140 cm. At the 9000 ft. level snow depth was greater than 220 cm. albeit wind loaded.
Snow Profile
Aspect
North
Elevation
8,600'
Slope Angle
30°
Comments
ECT 30. Q3 shear failure mid pack. HS 120 cm. I had to scrape out basal facets where a couple of weeks ago they seemed to flow out. Stronger though still weak.
Today's Observed Danger Rating
Moderate
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
Moderate
Coordinates
