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Observation: Moab

Observation Date
11/2/2024
Observer Name
Chris Benson
Region
Moab
Location Name or Route
Gold Basin-Middle Cirque
Weather
Sky
Overcast
Wind Direction
Southwest
Wind Speed
Light
Weather Comments
Winds were increasing later in the afternoon.
Snow Characteristics
Snow Surface Conditions
Faceted Loose
Wind Crust
Melt-Freeze Crust
Snow Characteristics Comments
The depth of snow ranged from 0cm on southerlies to ~50 cm on wind-loaded northerlies at higher elevations. Some interesting layering including some sugary faceted snow at the bottom of the snowpack which produced a moderate CT failure. A temperature or melt freeze crust about 15cm down was widespread and made for decent travel. Although shallow, the snowpack seemed to be fairly dense and supportive. Graupel layer was also easy to identify and see in a variety of locations around Gold Basin.
Red Flags
Red Flags
Poor Snowpack Structure
Avalanche Problem #1
Problem
Persistent Weak Layer
Trend
Increasing Danger
Problem #1 Comments
The bottom of the snowpack has some faceted snow. Could become a problem with more snow in the forecast next week.
Snow Profile
Aspect
Northwest
Elevation
10,900'
Slope Angle
33°
Video
Today's Observed Danger Rating
None
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
None
Coordinates