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Observation: Uintas

Observation Date
12/29/2018
Observer Name
Staples, Richards, Kimber, Davis
Region
Uintas
Location Name or Route
Iron Mine Mtn
Weather
Sky
Broken
Weather Comments
Clear cold and just a light breeze where we were. Temps were perfect for riding.
Snow Characteristics
New Snow Depth
6"
New Snow Density
Low
Snow Surface Conditions
Powder
Snow Characteristics Comments
Light powder, low sun angle, and cold temps made some beautiful cold smoke.
Avalanche Problem #1
Problem
Wind Drifted Snow
Problem #1 Comments
Low density powder on the surface can easily be transported by winds. The fragile snowflakes can make a good weak layer if capped by a slab of wind drifted snow.
Avalanche Problem #2
Problem
Persistent Weak Layer
Problem #2 Comments
Near 10k feet on north aspects, the snowpack was totally rotten. You'd nearly sink to the ground when stepping off the sled. The weakest and most obvious facets are near the ground. The odds of triggering a slide on this weak layer is pretty slim, but not zero.
Snow Profile
Aspect
North
Elevation
9,800'
Slope Angle
29°
Comments
Compare the snow profile above with one from Dec 22 in the same area.
Basically slabs of wind drifted snow will be the main problem until we get enough snow to wake up weak, sugary facets near the ground.
Video
Cold temps are starting to take their toll on the snowpack.
Video
We did not get into wind loaded terrain and the danger was low where we traveled.
Today's Observed Danger Rating
Low
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
Low
Coordinates