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Observation: Gooseberry

Observation Date
1/24/2019
Observer Name
Scott Watson
Region
Southwest » Fish Lake Area » Gooseberry
Location Name or Route
gooseberry/lost creek
Red Flags
Red Flags
Heavy Snowfall
Wind Loading
Avalanche Problem #1
Problem
New Snow
Trend
Decreasing Danger
Problem #1 Comments
The last storm dropped an indicated 12" at the Gooseberry snotel. I observed a total of approximately 40" at the site including the fluffy new stuff.
Avalanche Problem #2
Problem
Wind Drifted Snow
Trend
Same
Problem #2 Comments
I dug a pit at cold springs in the trees mid slope. The slope angle was approximately 35%. I did not observe any faceted snow, overall the snow pack seems to be sticking together nicely and I was unable to cause any failures in my test. While riding to the lost creek side of the pass I could easily identify where the wind has transported and deposited heavy amounts of snow on the north facing aspects along the ridges. I did not see any signs of failure but did read a post and see a picture from another rider on social media where a road cut failed as they were there idling their snowmobiles.
Today's Observed Danger Rating
Moderate
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
Moderate
Coordinates