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Observation: Empire Pass

Observation Date
1/18/2024
Observer Name
Peyton Costa
Region
Salt Lake » Park City Ridgeline » Empire Pass
Location Name or Route
Empire Pass
Red Flags
Red Flags
Poor Snowpack Structure
Avalanche Problem #1
Problem
Persistent Weak Layer
Trend
Same
Problem #1 Comments
Out of five pits dug at Empire Pass today, mine was one of two pits that did not propagate at this persistent weak layer. While a less reactive and shallower snowpack on SW aspect, this poor structure still exists.
Avalanche Problem #2
Problem
New Snow
Trend
Decreasing Danger
Problem #2 Comments
With yesterday's storm dropping 8-12in of new snow, pit test revealed several ECTN results within new snow/old snow interface.
Snow Profile
Aspect
Southwest
Elevation
8,900'
Comments
While in field, observed evidence of several small recent avalanches at upper elevations suspected to be the slope failure from wind loading during this most recent storm cycle.
Pretty impressive depth hoar observed around some rocks near pit.
Today's Observed Danger Rating
Considerable
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
Considerable
Coordinates