Donner Summit Observations

Location Name: 
Donner Summit
Region: 
Donner Summit Area
Date and time of observation: 
Sun, 01/16/2011 - 12:00
Location Map: 
United States
39° 17' 5.118" N, 120° 18' 58.7736" W
See map: Google Maps
US


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

Last night had above freezing temperatures with high and mid level clouds over the crest early this morning that didn't allow for much, if any, radiational cooling of the snowpack.  There were reports of a light mist over the crest early this morning.  South facing terrain was punchy, thick and wet even at 10am.  By 11:30am south facing was mostly mush with ski pen around 20cm+ and you could push your ski pole deep into the snowpack and to the ground in some areas.  Terrain around rocks and bushes were unsupportive and would collapse with the weight of a skier.  N-E terrain held together better throughout the day.  The old surface rain crust is now made up of mostly wet grains and was very sticky, roller ball activity was common in steeper terrain. 

Weather Observations
Blowing Snow: 
No
Air temperature: 
Above Freezing
Wind Speed: 
Light
Precipitation: 
None
Air temperature trend: 
Warming
Wind Direction: 
West
Accumulation rate: 
More detailed information about the weather: 

High and mid level clouds on the crest this morning.  West winds slightly increasing in the afternoon, 10-15mph, with intermittent clouds.