Observation: Powder Mountain

Observation Date
12/6/2020
Observer Name
Denver
Region
Ogden » Powder Mountain
Location Name or Route
Powder Mountain
Weather
Sky
Clear
Weather Comments
Today was an overall, calm, clear bluebird day. Definitely got a little warm in the afternoon.
Snow Characteristics
Snow Surface Conditions
Faceted Loose
Wind Crust
Snow Characteristics Comments
Overall it's a mixed bag out there. We found it all today, aside from new, fresh powder.
Red Flags
Red Flags
Collapsing
Poor Snowpack Structure
Red Flags Comments
Facets on crust on facets seemed to be the overall theme with varying levels of wind crust on top in the less protected areas. Also found some isolated collapsing or "whumpfing" in one area, likely the weak facet layer settling on plants under the supportable wind crust.
Avalanche Problem #1
Problem
Normal Caution
Problem #1 Comments
For now, avalanche risk is fairly low, the problems that come with a generally shallow snowpack are present. Also, of course, there's the problem that will likely arise from a future storm whenever that may be.
Comments
Lots of mixed conditions out there, with wind crusts, sun crusts, melt-freeze crusts and some really weak, rotten snow being protected in the northerly aspects. Starting the day with low expectations as far as riding quality, we were able to find some surprisingly ok turns depending on aspect and elevation. Some areas were pretty good and consistent with others being a bit more grabby.
Today's Observed Danger Rating
Low
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
Low
Coordinates