Snowpack

Observation: Oquirrh Mountains

T DiegelSalt Lake
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Quick report

Aspect
Northeast
Red Flags
Wind Loading
Elevation
2591 m
Slope Angle
30°
Red Flags Comment
<p>Due to the presence of the windjack there was a little windloading, but not excessive. </p>

Total snow depth was only about 2.5-3 feet, and while I expected to see the buried facets and at least get good shears (on quick hand pits) it didn't seem to be that way; fairly solid. The Paradis 3-foot -bridge-over-facet-layer didn't necessarily need to come into play? We didn't see any evidence of slides that happened in the Christmas cycle, no whoomphs, etc. Despite the thin 'pack it seemed pretty solid.

Snowpack

Instability Comment
<p>with new warmer snow on the way and increased wind - but hard to say if the wind will be at those lower elevations as they are in the Wasatch? What we skied either was wind hammered or sheltered/low-angled enough to not be very likely to slide. We ski cut the slope that had the "best" opportunity to slide (about 8500-9k, NW facing) and it didn't go and we skied it without incident; does that mean it was safe? </p> <p><strong>Forecaster note - Tom, great question. It's one that doesn't get asked enough. No clear answer, but good to ponder. -MS</strong></p>

soft in sheltered areas, a bit windjacked in open areas.  isolated  minor slabbiness just off ridges