Wind loading on Carpenter Ridge

The primary focus of our tour in the Carpenter Ridge area today was to observe wind transport and wind slab development.  Winds were consistently out of the SW at moderate to strong speeds.  Wind transport was evident along exposed terrain throughout the Sierra Crest.  ~25cm of snow is still available for transport on most aspects.  Wind slab development in this area was 8-10cm by midday.  These slabs were 1F resting on top of 4F but were stubborn to trigger with present loading.  A quick ECT targeting these slabs produced an ECTN 23.  As winds continue and strengthen wind slabs may become more reactive.  Sheltered N facing terrain was still holding cold unconsolidated snow.