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Observation: Moab

Observation Date
12/15/2020
Observer Name
Chris Benson
Region
Moab
Location Name or Route
South Mountain
Weather
Sky
Clear
Wind Direction
North
Wind Speed
Moderate
Weather Comments
Summit plumes and ridge top snow transport were visible from town for most of the day. Towards the late afternoon/evening, northerly winds were still present in the 10-20 mph range.
Snow Characteristics
Snow Surface Conditions
Wind Crust
Snow Characteristics Comments
Overall, thin snowpack with recent wind transport. Northerly winds have deposited snow onto south-facing slopes in the alpine. Many southwest through southeast facing slopes also display cross-loading.
Red Flags
Red Flags
Wind Loading
Avalanche Problem #1
Problem
Wind Drifted Snow
Trend
Decreasing Danger
Problem #1 Comments
Aspects on the south side of the compass probably have thin, possibly reactive wind slabs from 12/15 northerly wind event.
Comments
Cross loading on the west aspect of Mt. Tuk.
North-facing terrain of the South Mtn. Massif; snow has been stripped from the upper starting zones.
Wind textures on South Mtn., showing evidence of moderate-strong northerly winds.
Top loading near ridgeline on South Mtn.'s western summit.
Today's Observed Danger Rating
Low
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
Low
Coordinates