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Observation: Main Porter

Observation Date
1/11/2019
Observer Name
Fink
Region
Salt Lake » Mill Creek Canyon » Porter Fork » Main Porter
Location Name or Route
Main Porter Fork
Red Flags
Red Flags
Poor Snowpack Structure
Avalanche Problem #1
Problem
Wind Drifted Snow
Trend
Decreasing Danger
Problem #1 Comments
Stubborn wind drifts noted along lee ridges, NE-NW, nonreactive to ski cuts. Some wind effect and windslab noted in unsheltered zones below tree line.
Avalanche Problem #2
Problem
Persistent Weak Layer
Trend
Decreasing Danger
Problem #2 Comments
No pits today, but no activity was observed on the mid-pack persistent layers.
Comments
Ugly in the valley and beautiful up high, with warm temps in the upper 20s, calm at Porter Fork ridgetop. Good riding remains in sheltered areas, particular high trees on NW-NE aspects. Shallow wind deposited areas 4-5in deep released and sluffed while skiing. Stiffer pillows near ridgeline wouldn't be stomped off and were limited to 10-25ft below ridges. Multiple old slabs had released along the N facing Main Porter ridge, making for good entrance alternatives to the pregnant looking shots to either side.
Wind slab danger has quickly decreased since the start of the week. The persistent weak layers in the mid-pack remain the primary concern, but seem solidly moderate to low danger as the snowpack adjusts to the recent load. Sorry for no pit-- it was hit and run today.
Today's Observed Danger Rating
Moderate
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
Moderate
Coordinates