Observation: Catherine's Pass

Observation Date
11/22/2023
Observer Name
Gagne/Frey
Region
Salt Lake » Little Cottonwood Canyon » Catherine's Pass
Location Name or Route
Catherine's Pass Area
Weather
Sky
Clear
Wind Speed
Calm
Weather Comments
Clear and calm conditions with warm temperatures. South and west aspects dampened in the warm sunshine.
Snow Characteristics
Snow Surface Conditions
Faceted Loose
Damp
Snow Characteristics Comments
Snow depths are 15-80 cms, with the greatest amounts on upper elevation northerly slopes. Some areas with wind-loading likely exceeding a meter deep.
Red Flags
Red Flags
Poor Snowpack Structure
Red Flags Comments
Poor structure with a layer of faceted snow down 60 cms. This layering is above 10,000' on northerly aspects.
Comments
Photo shows weak facets down 60 cms. Full propagation with extended column test (ECTP23). I need more time looking at the snowpack to determine how widespread this weak layer is. Below 10,000' the snowpack is thinner with stronger crusts down near the ground.
Today's Observed Danger Rating
None
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
None
Coordinates