Observation: Moab

Observation Date
4/16/2023
Observer Name
W Ambler and J Noteboom
Region
Moab
Location Name or Route
Mellenthin
Weather
Sky
Clear
Snow Characteristics
New Snow Depth
5"
New Snow Density
Low
Snow Surface Conditions
Powder
Dense Loose
Wind Crust
Melt-Freeze Crust
Damp
Snow Characteristics Comments
In terrain which has been sheltered from both recent heavy wind and sun, there is cold, dry and soft snow to be found. Despite the fact it's sitting on a stout crust, it was just enough snow to really enjoy riding. On the solar aspects we found some small grained sticky wet snow or a not yet melted breakable crust. Which, at upper elevations did not heat up much more than the top inch or two. At lower elevations it was more sloppy and we triggered some small, shallow wet slides at our feet within the new snow. Even in the shade the lower elevation snow seemed to be feeling the heat.
Red Flags
Red Flags
Wind Loading
Rapid Warming
Red Flags Comments
No significant avalanche activity was noted today. Tomorrow should be warmer. At upper elevations there were noticeable wind loaded areas, however these were unreactive in our observations.
Comments
Pictured below are some beautiful striations carved by the wind and some graupel from the last snowfall.
Today's Observed Danger Rating
Low
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
None