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Observation: Alexander Basin

Observation Date
12/24/2022
Observer Name
PDiegel
Region
Salt Lake » Mill Creek Canyon » Alexander Basin
Location Name or Route
Alexander Basin
Red Flags
Red Flags
Collapsing
Poor Snowpack Structure
Comments
Did several hasty pits around 8,600 - 8,900 ft. E-SE facing had a clean shear about 20 cm from the surface and a solid block below that I was not able to budge. NE facing was totally different, with a clean shear also at 20 cm depth but then a very easy release near the ground (~ 120cm deep). Saw no sign of recent activity but got one monster collapse. Stayed clear of anything steep without dense trees. There seems to be a lot of spacial variability, not surprising given the recent wind. The surface snow was somewhat heavy and wet but entertaining. The snow pack still seems complex and hostile with avoiding steeper slopes the best strategy.
Today's Observed Danger Rating
Considerable
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
Considerable
Coordinates