West Shore Observations

Location Name: 
Bliss Peak
Region: 
West Shore Area
Date and time of observation: 
Fri, 02/25/2011 - 12:00
Location Map: 
United States
38° 58' 58.7928" N, 120° 7' 21.3528" W
See map: Google Maps
US


Red Flags: 
Whumphing noises, shooting cracks, or collapsing
Recent loading by new snow, wind, or rain
Observation made by: Professional Observer
Snowpit Observations
More detailed information about the snowpack: 

Up to 2' of new snow on the west shore this morning.  There was a noticable density change in the storm snow from the warming temps overnight into today creating an upside down snowpack.  This density change could be felt with a ski pole and while skiing. Large cracking around skis while breaking trail with every step and small shooting cracks in steeper test slope terrain.  Winds were moderate to strong in the lower elevation trees moving a fair amount of snow in what would normally be wind protected terrain.  All stability tests pointed to propagation being likely on the density change with the heavier slab on top, ECTP's in the easy to moderate range, 2x PST 45/100 END down 45cm.  All observations conducted in very safe low angle terrain, with limited visibility and avalanche concerns no direct observations from steeper terrain.

Snowpack photos: 
Snowpit videos (tests, etc): 

HiddenPeak2011 02 25 006

HiddenPeak2011 02 25 003

Weather Observations
Blowing Snow: 
Yes
Cloud Cover: 
100% of the sky covered by clouds
Air temperature: 
Below Freezing
Wind Speed: 
Strong
Precipitation: 
Snow
Air temperature trend: 
Warming
Wind Direction: 
South
Accumulation rate: 
Greater than 1 in. per hour
More detailed information about the weather: