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Observation: Moab

Observation Date
12/19/2020
Observer Name
Maggie Nielsen
Region
Moab
Location Name or Route
Gold Basin
Weather
Sky
Clear
Wind Direction
Southwest
Wind Speed
Light
Weather Comments
A dense fog sat over Moab Valley but things opened up once you hit Spanish Valley. In the mountains, the skies were clear, with some light to moderate winds at the ridgetops and peaks, and the temperature was cold between 15 and 25 degrees throughout my tour.
Snow Characteristics
New Snow Depth
5"
New Snow Density
Low
Snow Surface Conditions
Faceted Loose
Snow Characteristics Comments
The surface snow was very low density and easily blown around, as was evident on the ridges and peaks in the Gold Basin area. Peaks and ridges were wind scoured on what appeared to be most aspects, indicating that the winds have been shifting around the compass. In areas that were protected from the wind, I observed the all-too-familiar sparkle of surface hoar beginning to develop. A few ski pole tests revealed about 4-6" of very low-density snow sitting atop a strong crust. There is still very low coverage with rocks and grass obvious in many areas.
Red Flags
Red Flags
Wind Loading
Poor Snowpack Structure
Red Flags Comments
Though I didn't stop to dig a quick pit, it appears we are having a typical start of our season with a lot of days between storms, blowing winds, and varying temperatures. This new, low-density snow is sure to be blown around easily and create future problems with subsequent snowfall and the poor snowpack structure underneath.
Comments
Happy to finally make it up to the mountains and see other people enjoying themselves. In terms of snow conditions up there, we need a lot more snow coverage to help cover the rocks and other hazards. However, we are likely to see increasing avalanche danger throughout the season if things continue the way they have been with varying temps, winds, snow, and lots of time between storms. Be careful out there.
Today's Observed Danger Rating
Moderate
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
Moderate