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Observation: Salt Lake

Observation Date
12/26/2021
Observer Name
B
Region
Salt Lake
Location Name or Route
PC Ridgeline
Weather
Sky
Overcast
Precipitation
Heavy Snowfall
Wind Direction
Southwest
Wind Speed
Strong
Weather Comments
Strong SW - WSW Winds with Intense Gusts were observed throughout the day until 1400, and these were even prevalent in the more protected zones. Temps plummeted by mid afternoon.
Snow Characteristics
New Snow Depth
12"
New Snow Density
Medium
Snow Surface Conditions
Powder
Wind Crust
Melt-Freeze Crust
Snow Characteristics Comments
Variable condition in the Upper Elevations. Wind scouring down to old m/f Crusts were mixed with stiff Wind Slabs. The majority of the terrain offered excellent riding. The first 4 to 6 inches were a mixture of rimed PP and Graupel, with the last part of the storm offering 4 to 6 inches of lighter density snow. Periods of S4 were observed from mid morning to 1300.
Red Flags
Red Flags
Heavy Snowfall
Wind Loading
Poor Snowpack Structure
Red Flags Comments
Sensitive/Fragile Cornices were easily dislodged from safe distances.
Avalanche Problem #1
Problem
Persistent Weak Layer
Trend
Same
Problem #1 Comments
Persistent Slab and Deep Persistent Slab avalanche problems continue to be the central issue and can be found on the usual NW, N and E aspects at mid and upper elevations. Of note, these same issues may also be found in the lower elevations on NW and N aspects.
Avalanche Problem #2
Problem
Wind Drifted Snow
Trend
Same
Problem #2 Comments
Any potential Wind Slabs may step down to deeper faceted layers. Wind Slabs formed over the last 48 hours appeared suspect today and most likely will still be an issue on Monday. Any new snow may help hide these issues.
Today's Observed Danger Rating
High
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
High