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Observation: Soapstone

Observation Date
1/2/2023
Observer Name
Davis/Gonzalez
Region
Uintas » Soapstone
Location Name or Route
Soapstone
Weather
Sky
Overcast
Precipitation
Light Snowfall
Wind Direction
Southwest
Wind Speed
Light
Weather Comments
Overcast and light snow fall most of the day with times of low visibility.
Snow Characteristics
New Snow Depth
5.5'
New Snow Density
Medium
Snow Surface Conditions
Powder
Snow Characteristics Comments
18 to 24" of new snow (paste) covering the whole area provided great powder riding with over the hood snow with a soft base.
Red Flags
Red Flags
Recent Avalanches
Heavy Snowfall
Collapsing
Poor Snowpack Structure
Red Flags Comments
The latest storm dumped about 24" of new snow with a lot of water content which added a heavy load to a weak snowpack structure resting on the November PWL. We felt numerous big collapses through out the trip powerful enough to knock the snow off of tree limbs and shake smaller trees.
Avalanche Problem #1
Problem
Persistent Weak Layer
Trend
Same
Problem #1 Comments
The November PWL (facets) deep in the snowpack are still there but was not reactive in ECT tests.
Avalanche Problem #2
Problem
New Snow
Trend
Same
Problem #2 Comments
Two stability tests revealed a collapse and propogation at about 24" deep from the surface. This appeared to be a the new/old snow interface.
Snow Profile
Aspect
Northeast
Elevation
9,800'
Slope Angle
27°
Comments
ECT test resulted in a full propogation at what appeared to be the new snow and old snow interface at 105cms (60cm's below the surface).
Today's Observed Danger Rating
Considerable
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
Moderate