Observation: North Woods

Observation Date
2/7/2024
Observer Name
Van Wetter
Region
Moab » Gold Basin » North Woods
Location Name or Route
Northwoods
Weather
Sky
Overcast
Precipitation
Moderate Snowfall
Wind Direction
Northeast
Wind Speed
Strong
Weather Comments
Strong, gusty winds decreased slightly over the course of the morning. Intermittent flurries, with most new snow falling as pellet-like graupel.
Snow Characteristics
New Snow Depth
5"
New Snow Density
High
Snow Surface Conditions
Dense Loose
Snow Characteristics Comments
Strong overnight winds scoured and transported most new snow. The remaining new snow was dense and supportive, skiing a bit like styrofoam.
Red Flags
Red Flags
Wind Loading
Red Flags Comments
While we were unable to break any wind slabs, they have likely formed after a sustained windy period. Widespread transport of new snow.
Comments
While we were expecting to find high new snow totals, it appears that sustained winds overnight transported most new snow and buffed the snow surface. Fresh snow was found in pockets and had a dense, packed quality. New snow fell mostly as graupel and dip n dots, accompanied by gusty winds and broken skies. Fortunately, most old tracks have filled in and the new snow was fun but not blower.
Forecaster Comment: The conditions today were quite deceiving. I was able to confirm 12" of new snow by taking manual measurements and digging a pit in a sheltered locations. I also measured the storm board, and it was not drifted in by the wind. Like Sam said above, the wind blew away most of the snow on any windward slope, and in some places it was hard to tell that it snowed at all. The new snow was very dense, and even with 12" of new snow, ski penetration was only a few inches.
Today's Observed Danger Rating
Considerable
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
Considerable
Coordinates