Wind transport on Silver Peak

Location Name: 
Silver Peak
Region: 
Cabin Creek, Deep Creek, or Pole Creek Area
Date and time of observation: 
Fri, 01/11/2013 - 11:30
Location Map: 
United States
39° 13' 21.1656" N, 120° 14' 47.9364" W
See map: Google Maps
US


Red Flags: 
Whumphing noises, shooting cracks, or collapsing
Recent loading by new snow, wind, or rain
Observation made by: Forecaster
Snowpit Observations
More detailed information about the snowpack: 

Evidence of wind scouring and wind transport from W winds were widespread in this area both above and below treeline. Wind pillows and sastrugi were common on N-NE aspects showing previous NE winds and W winds wrapping around the peak. Wind loading was occurring on many E-SE aspects in this area today. Newly formed cornices in this area were very fragile and broke easily under the weight of an approaching person. Shooting cracks in non-corniced areas were less than 3 feet in length and limited to only the most well developed wind slabs on E-SE-S aspects.

Photo 1: Significant wind sculpted features well below treeline on a NE aspect.

Photo 2: Intentional skier triggered cornice collapse on S side of the E ridge of Silver Peak.

Photo 3: Wind transport over the N ridge of Silver Peak, wind loading an E aspect just above treeline.

Snowpack photos: 
Weather Observations
Blowing Snow: 
Yes
Cloud Cover: 
100% of the sky covered by clouds
Air temperature: 
Below Freezing
Wind Speed: 
Moderate
Precipitation: 
Snow
Air temperature trend: 
Static
Wind Direction: 
West
Accumulation rate: 
More detailed information about the weather: 

Occasional snow showers with little to no accumulation.