Observations from Powderhouse

Location Name: 
Powderhouse Peak
Region: 
Luther Pass Area (including Job and Freel)
Date and time of observation: 
Thu, 02/27/2014 - 12:00
Location Map: 
United States
38° 46' 58.4436" N, 119° 58' 31.6668" W
See map: Google Maps
US


Red Flags: 
Recent loading by new snow, wind, or rain
Observation made by: Professional Observer
Snowpit Observations
More detailed information about the snowpack: 

Previous NSF and NCF observed in this area a few days ago were observed to be moist to wet below 8700ft, and became more recognizable at higher elevations - though still could be easily pressed together.

Pit: Inconsistent ECT results. Informal tests throughout the day also showed variable bonding between yesterday's wetter snow and the colder snow on top.

Video: Strong W winds with Extreme NW gusts transporting a significant amount of snow.

Informal tests in Powderhouse Bowl showed deeper facets as observed on 2/23, but not yet showing signs of instability. No shooting cracks or whumphing, and purposeful ski cuts of steep rollovers failed to produce results. Some exposure to NW winds may explain 15-20cm of HST here compared to 2x that on treed slopes.

Strong solar input on any slopes receiving afternoon sun between breaks in clouds, resulting in dense surface snow.

 

Snowpit or crown profile photo or graph: 
Snowpit videos (tests, etc): 

20140227 Powderhouse wind

Weather Observations
Blowing Snow: 
Yes
Cloud Cover: 
75% of the sky covered by clouds
Air temperature: 
Below Freezing
Wind Speed: 
Strong
Precipitation: 
None
Air temperature trend: 
Static
Wind Direction: 
West
Accumulation rate: 
None
More detailed information about the weather: