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Observation: Timpanogos

Observation Date
4/9/2024
Observer Name
Kelly, Staples, Champion
Region
Provo » Timpanogos
Location Name or Route
Timpanogos
Weather
Sky
Clear
Wind Direction
Northwest
Wind Speed
Calm
Weather Comments
Mostly clear skies with cold temperatures that kept the snow surface cool at elevations above 8,800'. Clouds moved in later in the afternoon as wind speeds increased blowing from the west-northwest.
Snow Characteristics
Snow Surface Conditions
Powder
Melt-Freeze Crust
Damp
Snow Characteristics Comments
Snow surface was firm melt-freeze crust at low elevation north facing terrain. Above 8,800' north facing terrain was faceted graupel and wind board with areas of melt-freeze crust on any aspect that faced west or east. The sun warmed up the lower angle north facing slopes and smooth areas were still good skiing.
Photo of faceted graupel north-northwest facing aspect.
Avalanche Problem #1
Problem
Normal Caution
Problem #1 Comments
We saw and avoided large cornices near ridge-lines and observed old avalanche debris on north facing terrain at 9,600' (photo below). There was obvious texture from the wind within the upper elevation, but it did not offer any signs of instability while traveling through it.
Avalanche Problem #2
Problem
Wet Snow
Problem #2 Comments
Today, the cold air temperatures kept the snow from turning damp-however if temperatures warm up then this could change quickly. We are quite lucky right now to have such cool temperatures keeping the snow surface soft.
Comments
Today's Observed Danger Rating
Low
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
None
Coordinates