Observation: Little Cottonwood Canyon

Observation Date
12/9/2023
Observer Name
Menk
Region
Salt Lake » Little Cottonwood Canyon
Location Name or Route
LCC
Red Flags
Red Flags
Poor Snowpack Structure
Avalanche Problem #1
Problem
Persistent Weak Layer
Trend
Decreasing Danger
Problem #1 Comments
Weak layer was observed in the lower 30cms of the snowpack
Snow Profile
Aspect
West
Elevation
9,500'
Comments
Dug a quick pit today on a West aspect, 9500', in upper LCC. Snowpack generally had good structure in the upper portion with fist hardness in the new snow down to 4F/one finger. The last 30cms at the ground was faceted however I was able to make a snowball with the grains. I didn't observe rounds but the facets seemed less fragile than in past years in this location/time during a PWL problem. Total depth was 110 cm and coverage in upper LCC is fantastic for so early in the year. I think there is a LOT of spatial variability right now and I am avoiding North facing terrain and especially in locations with shallower snow depths. Sick day though best of the season for sure.
Today's Observed Danger Rating
Considerable
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
None