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

Facets and Wind Loading from Hwy 4

Location Name: Pacific Valley Region: Bear Valley Area Observation Date & Time: Friday, February 3, 2023 - 14:00
Location: 38.522827, -119.902087 See map: CalTopo	Is this an Avalanche Observation?: No Conditions Alerts: Other Signs of Instability (cracking, whumpfing, collapsing) Other Signs of Instability (cracking, whumpfing, collapsing)›Shooting Cracks Recent Loading›Blowing Snow Terrain Alerts: Terrain Matches the Advisory

Observation made by: Public

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Observation

Description of Snow, Weather, and Avalanche Conditions:

Very light snowfall at midday. Light wind at highway level. Wind speed higher near peaks. Observed wind loaded peaks with mainly NE aspects. Facets observed mostly 2-3 inches below surface. In areas with wind loading, facets about 8 inches below surface. Shooting cracks observed in one location near Pacific Valley.

Snowpack Details

Total Snow Depth:

270cm

Persistent Weak Layers:

Buried

Terrain Details

Terrain: elevations:

Near Treeline

Below Treeline

Terrain: aspects:

Weather Details

Elevation of Observation:

7000 - 8000 ft.

8000 - 9000 ft.

Blowing Snow:

Light

Wind Direction:

Southwest

Wind Speed:

Light

Sky Cover:

Broken - Mostly Cloudy - more than 4/8 and less than 8/8

Highest Precipitation Rate:

Very Light Snowfall (S-1 = up to .5cm /~.25 in per hour)

Precipitation:

Snow

Air temperature:

Below Freezing

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Facets and Wind Loading from Hwy 4

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Facets and Wind Loading from Hwy 4

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