Observation Date
1/10/2014
Observer Name
jg
Region
Uintas » Upper Weber Canyon » Smith-Moorehouse
Location Name or Route
Smith and Morehouse area
Weather
Sky
Overcast
Precipitation
Light Snowfall
Wind Direction
West
Wind Speed
Strong
Weather Comments
Wind was the big weather factor today. Winds were generally out of the west but NW and SW winds were observed and were affecting open slopes in valley bottoms and making fin-like wind drifts uphill of trees even in heavy timber. The winds were somewhat erradic and I was even seeing some east winds.
Snow Characteristics
New Snow Density
Medium
Snow Surface Conditions
Powder
Dense Loose
Snow Characteristics Comments
Somewhat dense wind affected snow made for decent riding. Not sure how much new snow; 4"-6' yesterday? No really significant accumulation today - other than what was blowing around.
Red Flags
Red Flags
Recent Avalanches
Wind Loading
Cracking
Collapsing
Poor Snowpack Structure
Red Flags Comments
Wind drifted snow was sensitve and easily cracked at your skis.
Got some tree-shaking/snow shedding collapses today.
And it's all sitting on weak faceted snow.
Avalanche Problem #1
Problem
Persistent Weak Layer
Trend
Same
Problem #1 Comments
Same to increasing danger.
Avalanche Problem #2
Problem
New Snow
Trend
Increasing Danger
Problem #2 Comments
Comments
It was all about the wind today. Wind gusts on the high ridges were in the 50's and 60's at times. Cornices were giant and sensitive. Winds were loading and cross loading slopes even at lower elevations. I would definitely steer clear of ANY wind loaded slopes steeper than 32°; not on, under or connected to.
Forecasted warmer temps will make the slab feel strong but our snowpack is EXTREMELY weak and it won't take much to trigger large, deep slides. Bone crusher.
More wind in the forecast won't help matters.
Today's Observed Danger Rating
High
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
High
