Observation from Andesite

Location Name: 
Andesite Peak
Region: 
Donner Summit Area
Date and time of observation: 
Mon, 02/13/2017 - 13:00
Location Map: 
United States
39° 20' 59.6976" N, 120° 21' 54.54" W
See map: Google Maps
US


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

Photo: 5mm surface hoar was wet at this low elevation location at 3pm. This was the largest surface hoar we observed on our tour. 

Variable conditons observed near Andesite today. Soft snow lingers in north facing patches but more areas feature firm wind altered surface conditons. Widespread sastrugi and reverse skin tracks were observed near and above treeline. Near surface facets observed in limited due north facing areas around 7700 feet. Mostly small .5mm down up to 10cms from the surface. 

More ridgetop winds than expected. No signs of loose wet activity around 3pm on W and SW aspects near and above treeline. 

Snowpack photos: 
Weather Observations
Blowing Snow: 
No
Cloud Cover: 
50% of the sky covered by clouds
Air temperature: 
Above Freezing
Wind Speed: 
Moderate
Precipitation: 
Air temperature trend: 
Wind Direction: 
East
Accumulation rate: 
More detailed information about the weather: 

Moderate East wind and cloud cover kept temps colder than expected on sunny aspects during midday hours.