Andesite Peak Observations

Location Name: 
Andesite Peak
Region: 
Donner Summit Area
Date and time of observation: 
Fri, 12/16/2016 - 12:30
Location Map: 
United States
39° 21' 3.8916" N, 120° 21' 57.8952" W
See map: Google Maps
US


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

2'' of new snow at trailhead (7200') with up to 4-5'' of new snow at Andesite Peak (8200').  This high density new snow was on top of a wet rain layer that is starting to freeze.  This rain layer was punchy in most spots and could be felt while descending.  Blowing snow was limited to areas above 8000' near the peak.  Small wind slabs were found along the summit ridge that measured up to 6-8'' at most and did not extend very far downslope.  Wind slab development was limited with most of the available snow already moved and windward areas scoured down to very firm rain crust.

Lots of evidence of water throughout this area with large creeks and open water areas.  

Snowpit or crown profile photo or graph: 
Snowpack photos: 
Weather Observations
Blowing Snow: 
Yes
Cloud Cover: 
75% of the sky covered by clouds
Air temperature: 
Below Freezing
Wind Speed: 
Moderate
Precipitation: 
Snow
Air temperature trend: 
Warming
Wind Direction: 
West
Accumulation rate: 
Less than 1 in. per hour
More detailed information about the weather: 

Very light snow showers throughout the mid day hours with little accumulation.