The eastern edge of the forecast area was favored during the Nov 19-20 snowfall. New snow amounts of 5 to 8 inches were reported in the Mount Rose, Marlette Lake, Jobs/Freel, and Ebbetts Pass areas. Areas further west received just a trace to 2 inches for the most part. With isolated exceptions, this new snow was deposited on bare ground.

Ridgetop winds shifted to ENE early in this last storm and peaked in the 85-100 mph range. New snow in the favored areas was heavily redistributed by the wind in near and above treeline areas. N-NE-E aspects were scoured to dirt while pillows of drifted snow formed in leeward areas on the other aspects. Below treeline areas hold a more uniform, but very thin snow cover on all aspects.

Avalanche hazard on a regional scale at this time is minimal. The exception is in the areas of greatest snowfall. Some small isolated areas of instability may exist where wind drifted snow has formed small wind slabs in near and above treeline terrain. Move cautiously near any of these areas of deeper wind drifted snow, using a mindset of avoidance. Consequences are high as even a tiny avalanche right now will hurt when you hit the rocks.

Photos: Nov 20 Tamarack Peak, NV. Wind scoured N aspects at and above treeline. Uniform snow cover below treeline.