Observation: Uintas

Observation Date
2/28/2021
Observer Name
Andrew Nassetta
Region
Uintas
Location Name or Route
Duschene Ridge
Red Flags
Red Flags
Recent Avalanches
Wind Loading
Collapsing
Poor Snowpack Structure
Avalanche Problem #1
Problem
Persistent Weak Layer
Trend
Same
Problem #1 Comments
Poor snowpack structure exists on NW-SE aspects, with weak faceted snow at the ground, and the Novemebr fcf combo 30cm above the ground helping support things (crust combo varying in places between 20-40 cm). This poor structure has been there since the beginning of the season, the difference now is that we have put a deep, cohesive slab on top of it, making it feel bomber riding under our equipment. Stability tests are beginning to show signs of improvement in terms of stability, but at the end of the end, poor structure will always trumps the rest in my book.
Avalanche Problem #2
Problem
Wind Drifted Snow
Trend
Same
Problem #2 Comments
Winds moved from the west to nw direction today in the light to moderate range, with plenty of snow available for transport, leeward slopes were being loaded throughout the day, filling in our ski tracks every other lap. These winds will form fresh drifts on the east half of the compass, as well as have the ability to contribute to increased sensitivity of the PWL discussed above.
Snow Profile
Aspect
Northeast
Elevation
9,600'
Slope Angle
27°
Comments
Img 1 - Physical image of pitprofile
Img 2 - Image of faceted snow found at the ground, grains ranging from 2-3 mil, chains a bit bigger
Img 3 - Wind-drifted snowsurface was still soft in many places, but stiffened up as the day carried on and winds continued from the W at moderate speeds
Img 4 - Large cornice collapse pulling out a slab below, evidence of the recent winds at work.
Img 5 - The yield
Today's Observed Danger Rating
Considerable
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
Moderate
Coordinates