E/NE winds near Blue Lakes

Location Name: 
Blue Lakes
Region: 
Carson Pass Area
Date and time of observation: 
Mon, 12/14/2015 - 12:00
Location Map: 
United States
38° 38' 31.4448" N, 119° 56' 35.0376" W
See map: Google Maps
US



Observation made by: Professional Observer
Snowpit Observations
More detailed information about the snowpack: 

Yet another (early stage) faceted layer observed in this area today. Likely formed during beginning of storm on 12/13, this looks like a mix of graupel and wet snowfall that quickly changed to cold snow. Graupel was weak and already becoming slightly angular, and was reactive to informal hand shears, and small and large column tests. Observed 30-40cm down from the surface on shady slopes up to our high point of 9000ft. Snowpack below 12/13 storm snow was similar to other regional observations on shady slopes, with crust/facet combos and facets near the ground. Spinning the track or stepping off the sled made these deeper weak layers immediately apparent. No standing surface hoar observed under 12/13 snow.

However, slope cuts on test slopes failed to show instabilities, including riding closely above previously cut lines. Most riders in the area today were choosing conservative lines, though a few pushed it into potential avalanche terrain without negative feedback.

Picture: E/NE winds were Moderate up to mid day, then tapered off in the afternoon. W/SW slopes below ridgelines generally do not have sufficient coverage for riding in this area.

Snowpack photos: 
Weather Observations
Blowing Snow: 
Yes
Cloud Cover: 
50% of the sky covered by clouds
Air temperature: 
Below Freezing
Wind Speed: 
Moderate
Precipitation: 
None
Air temperature trend: 
Static
Wind Direction: 
Northeast
Accumulation rate: 
None
More detailed information about the weather: 

Some light snow showers but no significant accumulation