HST 12" sitting on a melt-freeze crust. This is the crust that has made travel possible in the mid elevations of the Pahvants. Hard to isolate and where I was able to isolate, it was easy to shear. This tells me that caution is warranted in the lower elevations, such as exits from high terrain.
There is also a density inversion within the new snow, columns break/shear easily. This may be related to an impulse of low density stellers that fell this morning. I would imagine that this will settle out.
Photos below:
1. ECTPV, 35 degree slope.
2. Slow day in the Pahvants.
3. Video of forms including rimed dendrites.
Video
Based on what I saw today and preexisting snow this week from the Brian Head area north to to Skyline, I think a High Danger is warranted. Conditions in SW Utah are similar to the conditions described for the Skyline forecast.
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.
