UDOT PLANNED AVALANCHE CLOSURES!!

Observation: Ephraim Canyon

Observation Date
12/3/2018
Observer Name
Scott Watson
Region
Skyline » Ephraim Canyon
Location Name or Route
Ephraim Canyon Philadelphia flat
Red Flags
Red Flags
Heavy Snowfall
Wind Loading
Collapsing
Poor Snowpack Structure
Avalanche Problem #1
Problem
New Snow
Trend
Same
Problem #1 Comments
Over 36 inches of new snow fell in the last storms. While stationary on a snowmobile on the flat I heard the tell tale sound of collapsing in the weak layer at the ground.
Avalanche Problem #2
Problem
Wind Drifted Snow
Trend
Same
Problem #2 Comments
The ridges north of Philadephia flat are loading up with snow carried by the wind from the south-west. The same areas that we enjoy climbing have the rotten holdover snow from October and November with developing cornices.
Comments
Great time to enjoy the flats away from avalanche prone areas while the slopes stabilize.
Today's Observed Danger Rating
High
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
High