Observation Date
12/8/2024
Observer Name
Paradis
Region
Salt Lake » Park City Ridgeline
Location Name or Route
Park City Ridgeline
Weather
Sky
Clear
Wind Direction
West
Wind Speed
Light
Weather Comments
Generally pretty calm although we were mostly in the lee of prevailing winds most of the day. Clouds were moving quickly above so wind was probably more noticeable higher up.
Snow Characteristics
Snow Surface Conditions
Faceted Loose
Melt-Freeze Crust
Snow Characteristics Comments
In the shade old snow has remained soft, with melt freeze crusts (see photo below) or dirt elsewhere. It's thin.
Red Flags
Red Flags
Poor Snowpack Structure
Red Flags Comments
Snow pack is quite weak and I may have sunk to the ground through the facets after stepping out of my skis. I was expecting more faceting in the surface snow, however the relatively warm temps have made this process slower than it would be if it was really cold.
Avalanche Problem #1
Problem
Persistent Weak Layer
Trend
Same
Problem #1 Comments
Somewhat typical conditions for this time of year although maybe a little thinner than normal. Thin and faceted snow will likely result in avalanches when it snows.
Snow Profile
Aspect
Northeast
Elevation
9,800'
Slope Angle
22°
Comments
Snow depth of 55cms is pretty thin and comprised mostly of facets. Colder temps and a little new snow may accelerate faceting of the snow surface. Snow pit tests yeilded nothing.
Melt freeze crust in sun exposed areas. I didn't take a picture of it but large surface hoar (>2cms) was present in certain protected areas, such as along areas of running water.
Today's Observed Danger Rating
Low
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
Low
Coordinates
