Tamarack Peak Snowpack Observations

Location Name: 
Tamarack Peak
Region: 
Mount Rose Area
Date and time of observation: 
Thu, 02/23/2017 - 12:00
Location Map: 
United States
39° 19' 5.6568" N, 119° 55' 17.8644" 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: 

Moderate NW winds scoured and moved snow on to E-SE-S-SW aspects in exposed areas.  Wind slabs up to 6-8'' deep with cornice development off of ridges and peaks.  Limited evidence of reactive wind slabs were observed throughout the day.  Some small natural cornice failure was seen that was recent.  Multiple large cornice blocks dropped onto slopes did not produce any wind slab failure or cracking on slopes below.   Wind effect was common near treeline, above treeline, and in open areas exposed to the NW winds.  Other aspects and protected areas held unconsolidated snow.  A snowpit dug in below treeline terrain showed a deep, uniform, right side up snowpack.

Snowpit or crown profile photo or graph: 
Snowpack photos: 
Weather Observations
Blowing Snow: 
Yes
Cloud Cover: 
50% of the sky covered by clouds
Air temperature: 
Below Freezing
Wind Speed: 
Moderate
Precipitation: 
Snow
Air temperature trend: 
Static
Wind Direction: 
Northwest
Accumulation rate: 
Less than 1 in. per hour
More detailed information about the weather: 

Periods of sun, clouds, very light snow, and NW winds.