Mt. Rose Observations

Location Name: 
East Ridge Tamarack Peak
Region: 
Mount Rose Area
Date and time of observation: 
Thu, 02/17/2011 - 11:00
Location Map: 
United States
39° 18' 44.4708" N, 119° 54' 22.6944" W
See map: Google Maps
US


Red Flags: 
Recent avalanche activity
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: 

Around 2.5' of total storm snow at the Tamarack Lakes trailhead and 4-5' at higher elevations with some wind loading effects.  Observed shooting cracks in some of the moderately wind loaded terrain and cracking was common.  All the small soft slabs that I kicked off were failing within the recent storm snow, about 8'' deep.  Visibility was poor, once I gained the ridge I couldn't see much of anything and couldn't make out any natural avalanche activity.  Very deep trail breaking conditions today and heavy sluffing in lower angle terrain. 

 

Photo#1:  Shooting cracks and cracking were common mid slope and above.

Photo#2:  Soft slab failing with a ski kick at 9200' north aspect.  Not much propagation at this elevation, wind loading was occuring but limited.

Photo#3:  Looking towards the ridge and at treeline terrain, visibility was very limited.

 

 

Snowpack photos: 
Weather Observations
Blowing Snow: 
Yes
Cloud Cover: 
100% of the sky covered by clouds
Air temperature: 
Below Freezing
Wind Speed: 
Moderate
Precipitation: 
Snow
Air temperature trend: 
Static
Wind Direction: 
Southwest
Accumulation rate: 
Less than 1 in. per hour
More detailed information about the weather: 

Consistent light snowfall in the morning picking up by midday.