Spring conditions at Carson Pass

Location Name: 
Round Top
Region: 
Carson Pass Area
Date and time of observation: 
Fri, 11/23/2012 - 13:00
Location Map: 
United States
38° 40' 8.4" N, 120° 0' 10.8" W
See map: Google Maps
US


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

Pit: Surprisingly deep, cohesive snowpack at this location. Weak layer at 131cm is likely the same density inversion observed at this area on 11/19, though at this location there is a thin ice crust associated. Minimal temperature gradient observed near this crust, but no faceting was observed through 40x scope. Mid-pack rain crust not observable at this location. Very consistent column test results, but not supported by any other observations throughout the day.

Firm, supportable rain crust on all open slopes exposed to radiational cooling. Shaded aspects remained firm throughout day. Moderate to steep solar aspects softened to vary from 1cm to 15cm ski pen. Treed areas appeared to undergo weak overnight freeze, with a thin crust that quickly melted early in the day. Good coverage in the S Carson Pass area.

Snowpit or crown profile photo or graph: 
Weather Observations
Blowing Snow: 
No
Air temperature: 
Above Freezing
Wind Speed: 
Light
Precipitation: 
None
Air temperature trend: 
Static
Wind Direction: 
Southwest
Accumulation rate: 
None
More detailed information about the weather: