Sign Up for the Utah Snow and Avalanche Workshop (USAW) on December 7th!

Avalanche: West Willow

Observer Name
B
Observation Date
Tuesday, February 27, 2024
Avalanche Date
Tuesday, February 27, 2024
Region
Salt Lake » Big Cottonwood Canyon » Willows » West Willow
Location Name or Route
West Willow
Elevation
9,500'
Aspect
Northeast
Slope Angle
Unknown
Trigger
Natural
Trigger: additional info
Cornice Triggered
Avalanche Type
Soft Slab
Avalanche Problem
Cornice
Weak Layer
New Snow/Old Snow Interface
Depth
10"
Width
45'
Vertical
250'
Comments
Widespread Natural Cornice Fall Activity was observed from the North East facing Steep Terrain through the East Facing Arm Pit of West Willow. Very sensitive/Touchy Cornices when approaching them, and the entire area was littered with Natural activity that was running to transition zones. HN: 25cm at upper elevation with 18 at 8K. Westerly Winds were sustained in the Strong category with Extreme Gusts even in typically quiet areas. Intense Wind Blown/Transport observed throughout the day at all locations. Unseasonable very cold temperatures with only limited very brief periods of sun, and the solars survived without becoming damp. Supportable pre-storm surface crusts on E through S through W aspects. Danger today was Considerable due to the Wind Loading and Natural Activity reported above. Very poor visibility, thus no photos.
Coordinates