Observation: Powder Mountain Backcountry

Observation Date
12/14/2023
Observer Name
Daniel Turner
Region
Ogden » Powder Mountain Backcountry
Location Name or Route
Powder Mtn Area
Weather
Sky
Clear
Wind Speed
Calm
Weather Comments
Beautiful Blue Bird Day
Snow Characteristics
Snow Surface Conditions
Faceted Loose
Snow Characteristics Comments
Height of snow 79cm. Poor snow pack structure, early season coverage, near-surface faceting, persistent weak layer in old rotten snow near ground
Red Flags
Red Flags
Poor Snowpack Structure
Red Flags Comments
Persistent weak layer was prevalent on upper-elevation northerly slopes
Avalanche Problem #1
Problem
Persistent Weak Layer
Trend
Same
Problem #1 Comments
PWL of 2-4mm facets anywhere from 10-20cm from the ground.
Avalanche Problem #2
Problem
Wind Drifted Snow
Trend
Decreasing Danger
Problem #2 Comments
Signs of December 13th wind event were evident, particularly near ridge lines and peaks.
Snow Profile
Aspect
Northeast
Elevation
8,500'
Slope Angle
20°
Comments
Excellent day of riding upper elevation low angle slopes. Riding was particularly good in sheltered areas protected from recent wind event. Average snow depth was 80cm. Persistent weak layer was identified at approximately 59cm down in the snow pack, approximately 10-20cm from the ground, consisting of 2-4mm facets. standardized compression tests produced results of CTV, and CT16, and Extended Column Test ECTP16, indicating that the persistent weak layer is still very reactive.
Today's Observed Danger Rating
Moderate
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
Moderate
Coordinates