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Observation: Little Water

Observation Date
1/3/2023
Observer Name
Hoffman, Manship
Region
Salt Lake » Big Cottonwood Canyon » Mill D North » Little Water
Location Name or Route
Little Water Gulch
Weather
Sky
Overcast
Precipitation
Light Snowfall
Wind Direction
Northwest
Wind Speed
Light
Weather Comments
Cloudy with the sun attempting to show itself throughout the day. Light winds with continuous S-1 precipitation. Rime ice formation was noted on all aspects and elevations.
Red Flags
Red Flags
Poor Snowpack Structure
Red Flags Comments
The poor structure is the biggest red flag that was observed today. We did not experience any collapsing, cracking, or recent avalanche activity.
Avalanche Problem #1
Problem
Persistent Weak Layer
Trend
Decreasing Danger
Problem #1 Comments
Today in our snow pit, the mid-November facet layer was our largest layer of concern. In this location, it is buried 120cm below the surface and ranged from 4F+ to 1F- hardness. The slab above the layer of concern is right-side up and typically 1F hardness (besides small graupel layers). Our pertinent test results are as follows: ECTN23, ECTP30+*, and PST 30/100 END on November facets. With the propagation produced on our ECT, although not within the standard 30 taps, we found it important to note here considering the slab above sheared off with considerable energy.
This layer of concern is showing signs of healing, but continues to be stubborn at mid/upper elevation zones.
Snow Profile
Aspect
Northwest
Elevation
9,100'
Slope Angle
28°
Today's Observed Danger Rating
Considerable
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
Considerable
Coordinates