Instability in Eagle Creek Canyon

Location Name: 
Eagle Creek Canyon
Region: 
Desolation Wilderness Area (including Emerald Bay)
Date and time of observation: 
Sun, 01/16/2011 - 12:00
Location Map: 
United States
38° 56' 55.482" N, 120° 7' 28.9236" W
See map: Google Maps
US


Red Flags: 
Recent avalanche activity
Whumphing noises, shooting cracks, or collapsing
Rapid warming
Observation made by: Public
Snowpit Observations
More detailed information about the snowpack: 

Naturally occurring roller balls were evident - some almost as large as a full-grown person (Picture 2)Naturally occurring cornice collapses were also observed (Picture 1)

Ice fall and debris was also evident on some south-facing slopes likely occurring recently from collapsing ice pillars formed during last weeks cool temperatures

Snowpack photos: 
Weather Observations
Blowing Snow: 
Air temperature: 
Above Freezing
Wind Speed: 
Precipitation: 
Air temperature trend: 
Warming
Wind Direction: 
Accumulation rate: 
More detailed information about the weather: 

Warm temperatures caused instability in the snowpack on south-facing aspects in the canyon. Temperature at the car was 43 degrees F at 0830. Minimal cloud cover.