Observation: Timpanogos

Observation Date
12/9/2018
Observer Name
Woody
Location Name or Route
Runwaway Cliff
Avalanche Problem #1
Problem
Persistent Weak Layer
Trend
Same
Problem #1 Comments
Large well developed basal facets with 1m of snow sitting above it on a northerly facing slopes above 8300'
Avalanche Problem #2
Problem
Normal Caution
Problem #2 Comments
Provo area mountains underwent a small avalanche cycle several days ago with the up tick of wind overloading steep NE facing slopes in the upper elevations within the storm snow. With the rise in temps and clear skies the southerly faces have become damp to wet, and rollerballs and WL point releases have been occurring on steeper SSW-SE faces at all elevations. Stout MF and sun crusts will form tonight on southerly slopes
Snow Profile
Aspect
North
Elevation
9,200'
Comments
Found large SH developed on all aspects and elevations above 8000'. Old snow present from 8500' and higher. This old snow has become large sharp facets that are now supporting roughly a meter of consolidating snow above them. Southerly slopes above 8000' have a fair amount of snow on them, but the temps and sun are cooking them quickly, and I would expect to see strong MF and sun crust formed overnight. Low elevation and most of the mid elevations lacked the old snow, so everything on the ground at those elevations is just the post Nov 22 snow. This snow has settled out, and is very well bonded with little instability.
Today's Observed Danger Rating
None
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
None