Observation: Providence Canyon

Observation Date
3/14/2018
Observer Name
Toby Weed
Region
Logan » Providence Canyon
Location Name or Route
Providence Canyon, Mt. Logan Warming Hut
Weather
Sky
Overcast
Precipitation
Heavy Snowfall
Wind Direction
Southwest
Wind Speed
Strong
Weather Comments
Midday squall with rain, hail, graupel, strong wind, and a short period of heavy snow above 8000'.
Snow Characteristics
New Snow Depth
1"
New Snow Density
Medium
Snow Surface Conditions
Damp
Snow Characteristics Comments

Snow surface damp, even at upper elevations...

Red Flags
Red Flags
Rapid Warming
Poor Snowpack Structure
Avalanche Problem #1
Problem
Wet Snow
Trend
Same
Avalanche Problem #2
Problem
Persistent Weak Layer
Trend
Same
Snow Profile
Aspect
West
Elevation
8,400'
Slope Angle
24°
Comments

My snowpit tests showed full propagation (ECTP 16) just under rain-crust from the end of January or early February where melt water is currently pooling.

Video

The Providence Canyon road is mostly melted down to rock, mud, and gravel. Not really great riding conditions. Hoping incoming storm will cover it up again.

Cooler temperatures forecast for the next few days will slow the meltdown and help snow stability. Several hours with temperatures in the teens or lower twenties would help significantly...

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