Observation: Broads Fork

Observation Date
2/18/2024
Observer Name
L. Dunn
Region
Salt Lake » Big Cottonwood Canyon » Broads Fork
Location Name or Route
BCC>Lower Broads Fork
Weather
Sky
Obscured
Precipitation
Heavy Snowfall
Wind Direction
West
Wind Speed
Moderate
Weather Comments
The weather was a little of everything today, ranging from a light rain/snow mix at the S-Turn trailhead, to heavy snow and blizzard like conditions for a couple hours in the afternoon up higher in Broads Fork. Winds were quite gusty at times from a variety of directions. The winds were definitely strong enough to transport snow, even in the trees.
Snow Characteristics
New Snow Depth
5"
New Snow Density
High
Snow Surface Conditions
Powder
Snow Characteristics Comments
The snow in Lower Broads was dense creamy powder. It seemed like some of the high density character was due to wind and graupel as opposed to warmth.
Comments
This observation is meant to provide a data point for the UAC forecasters. We had good skiing and saw no signs of instability in the zone where we were skiing...north facing 7000-8500'. Today's forecast for this aspect and elevation band was Moderate and I think the forecast was spot on! We skied some steep terrain and convex rolls and didn't even see a sluff. No cracking, no settlement, nothing. I would typically exit Broads via Eenie, Meenie into Lake Blanche. We weren't willing to risk that level of exposure today...
Today's Observed Danger Rating
Moderate
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
Moderate
Coordinates