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Observation: Thomas Fork

Observation Date
1/22/2025
Observer Name
Hathcock
Region
Salt Lake » Neffs » Thomas Fork
Location Name or Route
Thomas Fork Burn Zone
Red Flags
Red Flags
Wind Loading
Poor Snowpack Structure
Avalanche Problem #1
Problem
Wind Drifted Snow
Problem #1 Comments
Small but very reactive hardslab wind drifts ~10-15cm deep on east side of ridgeline above 7600ft to 8200ft. where I turned around. (Photo 2)
Avalanche Problem #2
Problem
Persistent Weak Layer
Trend
Same
Problem #2 Comments
The area I dug and rode was very faceted, with deteriorating crusts mixed in. Ski pen was ~30cm, but boot pen was near ground. Not much of a slab and no signs of instability. Maybe the propensity for cold pooling in the area and lack of snow depth, propelled the snowpack into this state.
Snow Profile
Aspect
Northeast
Elevation
7,600'
Comments
I dug a dirty Column Test down lower at 7100ft. The column just mashed down with no result. The pack down here was right side up, and the PWL did not appear until my second test at 7550.
Today's Observed Danger Rating
Moderate
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
None
Coordinates