Testpit, cracking and slab failure on Hidden Peak

Location Name: 
Hidden Peak
Region: 
West Shore Area
Date and time of observation: 
Sat, 11/27/2010 - 12:08
Location Map: 
United States
38° 58' 49.4256" N, 120° 7' 45.0804" 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: 

New slab formed with upside-down properties due to rising snow levels at the start of the storm. Slab approaching 1 foot deep in the most heavily wind loaded areas.

Photo 1: Shallow slab failure on test slope along summit ridge. 9,030' at treeline on NE aspect. 1F hardness slab over F hardness new snow.

Photo 2: Shooting crack 40' long in similar summit ridge area.

Snowpit or crown profile photo or graph: 
Snowpack photos: 
Weather Observations
Blowing Snow: 
Yes
Cloud Cover: 
100% of the sky covered by clouds
Air temperature: 
Below Freezing
Wind Speed: 
Strong
Precipitation: 
Snow
Air temperature trend: 
Warming
Wind Direction: 
Southwest
Accumulation rate: 
Less than 1 in. per hour
More detailed information about the weather: