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Observation: Sink Hollow

Observation Date
12/20/2020
Observer Name
Thompson
Region
Logan » Beaver Creek » Sink Hollow
Location Name or Route
Sink Hollow Area
Red Flags
Red Flags
Recent Avalanches
Collapsing
Poor Snowpack Structure
Avalanche Problem #1
Problem
Persistent Weak Layer
Trend
Same
Problem #1 Comments
Observed numerous collapses on low angle slopes during my ascent.
Caught a glimpse of an avalanche (E, 8600') which appeared to have failed in within the last few days at the storm snow/old snow interface (separate ob)
Hand pits confirmed poor snow structure with recent storm snow resting on top of older weaker facets
Avalanche Problem #2
Problem
Wet Snow
Trend
Decreasing Danger
Problem #2 Comments
Upper layer of recent storm snow was damp in places, particularly from about 8500' down.
Observed roller balls and point releases that likely occurred during the day along Logan Canyon road from about 7000' down.
Temperatures along the ridge-top at 9000' were quite a bit colder due to the wind, so I suspect this may be a mid-low elevation problem.
Comments
Traveled today primarily between about 7500 and 9000 feet on easterly aspects near the Utah/Idaho border.
Noted a breakable rime crust between about 8000' and 9000'
Precipitation began early afternoon and was generally light (s-1)
Snow pack continues to show poor structure. Audible "whumfing" during my ascent was a clear reminder to keep the terrain choices conservative.
Today's Observed Danger Rating
Considerable
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
Considerable