The last avalanche forecast for the 2023-2024 season will post on April 21st. Thank you to all who contributed to the avalanche center this season through observations, volunteer time, and/or financial contributions.

Elephant's Back

Location Name: Elephant's Back Region: Carson Pass Area Date and time of observation: Sat, 12/17/2016 - 08:50
Location Map: United States 38° 40' 54.5448" N, 119° 58' 58.098" 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: Public

Snowpit Observations

Snowpack photos:

Wind scouring and ice on north-ridge

Wind scouring and ice on north-ridge

North East/ East bowl showed sign of <a href="/avalanche-terms/wind-loading" title="The added weight of wind drifted snow." class="lexicon-term">wind loading</a>. Snow was punchy with a 2-3 inch crust on similar <a href="/avalanche-terms/aspect" title="The compass direction a slope faces (i.e. North, South, East, or West.)" class="lexicon-term">aspects</a>. We decided not to ski the bowl.

North East/ East bowl showed sign of wind loading. Snow was punchy with a 2-3 inch crust on similar aspects. We decided not to ski the bowl.

Weather Observations

Blowing Snow:

Yes

Cloud Cover:

Clear

Air temperature:

Below Freezing

Wind Speed:

Moderate

Precipitation:

None

Air temperature trend:

Wind Direction:

West

Accumulation rate:

None

More detailed information about the weather:

Sponsors:

CA OHMVR

Heavenly Mountain Resort

Kirkwood Mountain Resort

Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe

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