Item: ARIZONA'S ELEVATION SNOW DENSITY STUDY ON THE SAN FRANCISCO PEAKS
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Title: ARIZONA'S ELEVATION SNOW DENSITY STUDY ON THE SAN FRANCISCO PEAKS
Proceedings: Proceedings, International Snow Science Workshop, Whistler, BC, Canada, 2026
Authors:
- David B K Pedersen [ City of Flagstaff, Arizona ] [ Kachina Peaks Avalanche Center (KPAC), Flagstaff, AZ ]
- David W Lovejoy [ Kachina Peaks Avalanche Center (KPAC), Flagstaff, AZ ] [ Prescott College, Prescott, AZ ]
Date: 2026-09-28
Abstract: Variability in storm snow density along an elevation gradient has been frequently observed, however, systematic attempts to correlate these variables have not. In this study, storm snow depths and densities were sampled from five study sites ranging in elevation from 2174m to 3536m on the western aspects and base of San Francisco Peaks, Coconino County, Arizona. Over four winters (2020-21 through 2023-24) near-synchronized sampling was conducted when precipitation parameters met specific protocols. Each site was paired with an automated weather station to enable further analysis of factors contributing to densification. Findings are potentially useful for snow water resource assessment and prediction, as well as, to assess the immediate impact of storm snow loading on pre-existing weak layers, and the potential for destabilization of the seasonal snowpack.
Object ID: ISSW2026_P4.8.pdf
DOI: https://doi.org/10.15788/1790099418
Language of Article: English
Presenter(s): David Lovejoy
Keywords: snow density, snow water equivalent, San Francisco Peaks
Page Number(s): 412 - 415
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