Snowpit and observations on Hidden Peak

Location Name: 
Hidden Peak
Region: 
West Shore Area
Date and time of observation: 
Sun, 02/20/2011 - 12:00
Location Map: 
United States
38° 59' 7.44" N, 120° 7' 53.1156" W
See map: Google Maps
US


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

I dug this pit adjacent to an avalanche tha most likely occurred on Friday 2-18-11. In most areas on HIdden peak the recent snow measured between 3-6 ft deep. Some minor cracking did occur on a 39 degree, N-NE facing, wind-loaded roll-over near the summit. Most other observations showed increasing stability. The winds continued to transport new snow onto the N-NE aspects near the summit ridgeline. Cornices remained tender; however, refirdgerator-sized cornice blocks dropped onto the slopes below did not produce any failures.

Photo: Settlement cracks around a tree near the summit of Hidden Peak.

Snowpit or crown profile photo or graph: 
Snowpack photos: 
Weather Observations
Blowing Snow: 
Yes
Cloud Cover: 
Clear
Air temperature: 
Below Freezing
Wind Speed: 
Moderate
Precipitation: 
None
Air temperature trend: 
Static
Wind Direction: 
Southwest
Accumulation rate: 
More detailed information about the weather: