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Observation: Timp Divide

Observation Date
2/16/2021
Observer Name
Hardesty
Region
Provo » Provo Canyon » North Fork Provo R. » Alpine Loop » Timp Divide
Location Name or Route
Timp Divide
Weather
Sky
Broken
Precipitation
Light Snowfall
Wind Direction
Northwest
Wind Speed
Light
Weather Comments
Aspen Grove was in the rain (snow) and wind shadow. Partly cloudy skies occasionally broken by flurries.
Snow Characteristics
New Snow Depth
12"
New Snow Density
Medium
Snow Surface Conditions
Powder
Damp
Red Flags
Red Flags
Recent Avalanches
Heavy Snowfall
Wind Loading
Poor Snowpack Structure
Avalanche Problem #1
Problem
New Snow
Trend
Same
Problem #1 Comments
Natural new snow avalanche in The Fang slide path. The Fang is a popular ice route in Provo Canyon. Surprised to see no other naturals. Visibilty was limited in scope, however.
Settled new snow of about 30cm at 8000'. Total SWE since Thursday night is 2.50".
Much depends on how the winds play out with regards to the new snowfall.
Avalanche Problem #2
Problem
Persistent Weak Layer
Trend
Increasing Danger
Problem #2 Comments
As above, much depends on how the winds play out. I expected to see larger, longer running naturals in - for example - the NE chute of Elk Point above Aspen Grove (photo). It's a nearly 4000' avalanche path. Perhaps I was too early; we'll see.
I stayed well away and beyond runout zones.
Most significant layers are at and near the bottom of the snowpack. See profile.
Snow Profile
Aspect
North
Elevation
8,100'
Slope Angle
20°
Comments
Would rate the danger today High for upper elevation, Considerable for mid elevations, Moderate for low elevations.
We'll see how the weather plays out. Winds could be enough to trigger large long running slides in Provo.
Today's Observed Danger Rating
High
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
None