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Observation: Cutler Ridge

Observation Date
2/8/2014
Observer Name
Michael Henderson
Region
Ogden » Ben Lomond » Cutler Ridge
Location Name or Route
Cutler Ridge
Weather
Sky
Overcast
Precipitation
Moderate Snowfall
Wind Direction
Northwest
Wind Speed
Moderate
Weather Comments
Wind was moderate above 8,000 ft gusting to approximately 30mph. At 7500 feet winds calmed, however still gusted to approximately 20mph
Snow Characteristics
New Snow Depth
10"
New Snow Density
Medium
Snow Surface Conditions
Powder
Dense Loose
Snow Characteristics Comments
Snow above 8,000 ft was very much blown into a firm wind slab. Skiing above 8,000 ft was okay, however around 7,500 wind slab was almost non existent and skiing became extremely fun (a couple of face shots on steeper treed areas).
Red Flags
Red Flags
Heavy Snowfall
Wind Loading
Poor Snowpack Structure
Red Flags Comments
New snow/old snow interface was not bonded extremely well together. approximately 50 cm down there was a significant melt/freeze layer that was 2 cm thick. Performed 2 Compression tests and 1 ECT. Both Compression tests yielded a CT 10 Q1 at 70 CM down on a old facet layer that was set on top of a firm pencil layer above the buried depth hoar.
Avalanche Problem #1
Problem
Persistent Weak Layer
Trend
Same
Problem #1 Comments
Wind slab was very prevalent above 8,000 ft. Steep slopes on N-NE-E aspects were suspect to say the least.
Avalanche Problem #2
Problem
New Snow
Problem #2 Comments
After 2 compression tests with results of CT10 Q1 at a buried facet layer just above depth hoar. The new storm snow could over load the current snowpack and step down into the buried week layers. New/old snow interface was not extremely well bonded and this could step down into deeper layers as well.
Snow Profile
Aspect
Northeast
Elevation
7,500'
Slope Angle
25°
Today's Observed Danger Rating
High
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
High
Coordinates