Observation: Electric Lake

Observation Date
12/21/2020
Observer Name
Darce Trotter / Steve Cote
Region
Skyline » Huntington Canyon » Electric Lake
Location Name or Route
Lower Electric Lake Ridge
Weather
Sky
Clear
Weather Comments
warm calm day, significant evidence of winds during late storm, but none today
Snow Characteristics
New Snow Density
Low
Snow Surface Conditions
Powder
Wind Crust
Snow Characteristics Comments
East facing seemed to fall on dirt, but as we moved more NE through N, and into more sheltered areas old faceted snow 5"-6" deep capped by 10" of newer settled snow from last storms. E through NE had ski tracks from yesterday? and was supportable, fast, and heating up in direct sun. As we moved more into due N and more sheltered areas, it was much punchier and weaker, not gaining strength as fast. Localized small collasping but no big whomphs, but we were in pretty tame terrain. Lots things to hit yet, just not enough snow to let your guard down. Also noted tracks in Big Meadow over by Miller Flats.
Red Flags
Red Flags
Collapsing
Poor Snowpack Structure
Red Flags Comments
Small cornice falls on leeward side of Wedding Ring Ridge and imagine similar activity in exposed areas. Also noticed one small natural in steep shallow rocky area, usual suspects
Avalanche Problem #1
Problem
Persistent Weak Layer
Trend
Same
Problem #1 Comments
Forecast explains well
Avalanche Problem #2
Problem
Cornice
Trend
Decreasing Danger
Problem #2 Comments
Although smaller than we have seen, still likely to be sensitive
Video
Today's Observed Danger Rating
Considerable
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
Considerable
Coordinates