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Observation: Scott Hill

Observation Date
1/19/2021
Observer Name
Hardesty
Region
Salt Lake » Park City Ridgeline » Scott Hill
Location Name or Route
PC Ridgeline
Weather
Sky
Clear
Wind Direction
East
Wind Speed
Moderate
Weather Comments
Clear, cool with east wind.
Snow Characteristics
New Snow Depth
2"
New Snow Density
Low
Snow Surface Conditions
Powder
Wind Crust
Melt-Freeze Crust
Snow Characteristics Comments
Last few days of low density snow (settled 2-3") will readily weaken and facet.
Red Flags
Red Flags
Wind Loading
Poor Snowpack Structure
Avalanche Problem #1
Problem
Persistent Weak Layer
Trend
Same
Problem #1 Comments
Northerlies are a horror show of facets and depth hoar with some variability of "mid-pack" settled slab. No cracking/collapsing noted.
South remains uncomplicated with stout crusts. SE and SW host facet/crust layercakes. SE will be a player at upper and possibley mid elevations with storms; SW possible as it wraps toward West, particularly where the crusts are thin/friable.. Poor structure.
Avalanche Problem #2
Problem
Wind Drifted Snow
Trend
Decreasing Danger
Problem #2 Comments
Both hard and soft wind drifts exist. These generally trending stable.
Remember hard slabs you ride on the drift (pic1); soft slabs you're in the drift (and often accompanied by more prevalent cracking). pic 2
Consistent easterly winds today yet slab development seemed isolated and minimal.
Old Testament etching in the whirlwind with pic 3
Today's Observed Danger Rating
Moderate
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
Moderate