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Observation: Upper Chalk Creek

Observation Date
3/17/2022
Observer Name
Craig Gordon/Ted Scroggin
Region
Uintas » Upper Chalk Creek
Location Name or Route
Upper Chalk Creek
Weather
Sky
Clear
Wind Direction
North
Wind Speed
Light
Weather Comments
Stunning day on the eastern front! Shallow pow, light winds, and cold temps.
Snow Characteristics
New Snow Depth
8"
New Snow Density
Medium
Snow Surface Conditions
Powder
Melt-Freeze Crust
Snow Characteristics Comments
The sun is high in the sky and it has baked all but the most northerly facing slopes in the alpine. But don't let your soft snow heart be troubled, there are large swaths of shallow, cold snow... just don't stray too far off aspect or you'll be dealing with varying degrees of breakable crust.
Red Flags
Red Flags
Poor Snowpack Structure
Red Flags Comments
I checked snow structure, but I wouldn't call it POOR where we traveled, in fact I was psyched to see the direction the stability trend is going in. However, I do think we need to proceed with caution and gather plenty of snow beta before stepping into big terrain. Knowing the history of the pack I'm cautiously optimistic that the PWL might be trending towards adjusting to last weeks storm cycle. It's spring and changes occur rapidly this time of year.
Avalanche Problem #1
Problem
Persistent Weak Layer
Problem #1 Comments
This big northeast facing bowl is a repeater and the buried facets from the mid winter dry spell came to life as a result of last weeks big storm. Filled in by snow and wind when I captured this image today, it's clear the avalanche broke deep and wide.
Today's Observed Danger Rating
Moderate
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
Moderate
Coordinates