Observation: Brighton Perimeter

Observation Date

12/9/2025

Observer Name

Region

Salt Lake » Big Cottonwood Canyon » Brighton Perimeter

Location Name or Route

Brighton Perimeter

Weather

Sky

Overcast

Wind Direction

Northwest

Wind Speed

Moderate

Weather Comments

Rapid warming today combined with the thick cloud cover appeared to exacerbate the effects of the unseasonable temperatures experienced today,

Snow Characteristics

Snow Surface Conditions

Damp

Snow Characteristics Comments

All aspects up to at least 9500' became damp today in areas traveled, and will likely be crusted tomorrow in areas that receive overnight freezing temperatures. Riding was surfy today and acceptable despite the low snowpack conditions.

Red Flags

Cracking

Collapsing

Poor Snowpack Structure

Red Flags Comments

Collapses experienced today appeared to be more significant than on previous days as the slab may be consolidating more. Snowpit tests continue to exhibit sudden results and propagation.

Avalanche Problem #1

Problem

Persistent Weak Layer

Trend

Decreasing Danger

Problem #1 Comments

The Basal Persistent Slab Avalanche Problem appears to becoming more stubborn with the intense warming, but any steep slopes that are harboring early season snow that has not already slide remain suspect. As a result the Danger Trend appears to be Decreasing slightly, and the forecast for even warmer temperatures over the next five days may continue to help this Basal Facet Problem show signs of moving towards healing in some locations. Despite the next two nights of minimal to no overnight freezing temperatures up to 9000', the large diurnal temperature swings forecast for the upper elevations may aid in weakening the surface snow conditions on Polar aspects.

Today's Observed Danger Rating

Moderate

Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating

Moderate

Coordinates

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