Snowpack ob from Nat Geo area

Location Name: 
NE ridge of Granite Chief Peak
Region: 
Cabin Creek, Deep Creek, or Pole Creek Area
Date and time of observation: 
Fri, 12/29/2017 - 14:00
Location Map: 
United States
39° 12' 7.5708" N, 120° 17' 0.1824" W
See map: Google Maps
US


Red Flags: 
Whumphing noises, shooting cracks, or collapsing
Observation made by: Guide at Alpenglow Expeditions
Snowpit Observations
More detailed information about the snowpack: 

We found a variety of surface conditions today, from sun-warmed to crusts, to cold snow in northerly aspects. The snow in sheltered north aspects, 7800-9000' remains remarkably cold and unconsolidated. 

We observed the persistent slab problem @ 8250' on a NW aspect, in an obviously loaded piece of terrain near a ridge. The overlying slab ranged from very thin to over 35cm thick, and was resting on facets (weak, sugary snow). Quick hand shear tests gave easy, planar results, and minor shooting cracks were also observed in the area. 

Photo 1: Weak, sugary snow under the slab

Photo 2: Slab after a hand shear. 

Snowpack photos: 
Weather Observations
Blowing Snow: 
Yes
Cloud Cover: 
25% of the sky covered by clouds
Air temperature: 
Above Freezing
Wind Speed: 
Moderate
Precipitation: 
None
Air temperature trend: 
Wind Direction: 
Southwest
Accumulation rate: 
None
More detailed information about the weather: