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Observation: Cutler Ridge

Observation Date
1/5/2023
Observer Name
Derek DeBruin
Region
Ogden » Ben Lomond » Cutler Ridge
Location Name or Route
Ben Lomond, Cutler Ridge
Weather
Weather Comments
Mild temps today hanging out a bit below freezing. Light wind below about 7800ft, above which the wind turned on with some vigor. S-W winds were about 25-30mph, with gusts a bit stronger. Skies were mostly cloudy to overcast, and precip began spitting around 230pm, composed of rimed forms and small graupel.
Snow Characteristics
Snow Characteristics Comments
Snow surface was largely soft-ish and dense, as well as just plain soft in sheltered areas. However, wind skin and zipper crust was definitely present in more exposed locations starting above 6500ft or so. From 7600ft and upward, a variety of wind-affected surfaces were present. Soft turns required some intention to find the preserved soft snow.
Comments
No significant red flags today. Snow transport was definitely occurring above about 7800ft, with small (<1m) cornices forming on the hogsback ridge, and wind loading beginning on the lee aspects (NE quadrant). Hard slabs were stubborn, and soft snow was pretty well bonded to the underlying surface.
No cracking or collapsing and no recent avalanche activity. However, crowns were still visible from a distance from the avalanches 5 or 6 days ago on the Cutler headwall, a reminder of what lurks beneath all the recent snow.
Today's Observed Danger Rating
None
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
None