Widespread NSF and NCF observed at Meiss

Location Name: 
Meiss
Region: 
Carson Pass Area
Date and time of observation: 
Tue, 12/20/2016 - 12:00
Location Map: 
United States
38° 43' 0.5916" N, 120° 1' 22.7064" W
See map: Google Maps
US


Red Flags: 
Rapid warming
Observation made by: Professional Observer
Snowpit Observations
More detailed information about the snowpack: 

Near Surface Faceting observed on all surfaces except the sunniest slopes, and Near Crust Faceting observed above Dec 15th rain crust on all slopes traveled today, from 8600 to 9400ft. These two faceting processes limited new slab development, even though recent storm snow has settled from 30cm observed on 12/17 to 20cm today. Adjacent to profile from 12/17, an ECT did not show likely propagation where on 12/17 it did. Below the 12/15 rain crust, facets were observed but some perc tubes were also present, and resulted in a PST 90/100 (end). On the facets right above the 12/15 crust, a PST 20/100 (SF) supported informal observations that faceting was limiting new slab development.

Pic 1: Evidence of previous E wind. W aspects in this area did not hold continuous enough wind slab development to be a concern today. 

Pic 2: Surface hoar in Meiss Meadows was no surprise, but with calm winds and warm inversion conditions today, surface hoar could form on higher slopes after sunset and prior to tonight's weather change, and would be worth looking for if any new snow accumulation occurs.

Snowpack photos: 
Weather Observations
Blowing Snow: 
No
Cloud Cover: 
Clear
Air temperature: 
Above Freezing
Wind Speed: 
Calm
Precipitation: 
None
Air temperature trend: 
Warming
Accumulation rate: 
None