Dream Peak Trees

Observer: doug lewis, Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center
Date: Feb 23, 2017, 3:30 PM
Loc: Dream Peak
Lat/Lon:37.7404, -119.0977
Elevation: 9700 f
Aspect: ENE Angle: 38°
Signs of Instability: Recent Avalanches, Wind Loading
Sky Cover: FEW
Wind Speed: Light, subjective
Wind Direction: S
Current Temp: -10.5°C
Snow Depth: 275cm
Snow Temperature 20cm:-7.5° C 
Boot Penetration: 55cm

Comments: Thin wind skin on exposed Easterly aspects, localized wind slabs near favored terrain features above 9000'. Partially covered avalanche debris on Neg 1, east aspects of Dream Peak, D2-3 to possible 3.5. All slide debris on E-N aspects. Stability tests variable. Melt Freeze crust (15cm thick) @ 125 from surface with 2cm thick layer of facets on top. 6 Stability Tests: CT2 Q3 30cm CT5 Q3 30cm CT11 Q3 130cm CT6 Q3 30cm Very soft slab with no propagation CT18 Q3 130cm 2mm facets over melt freeze crust. Very rough bed surface. CT21 Q3 130cm. 

Extensive action around June from previous snow cycle (Sun-Wed), mostly D2 to D3 variety, though one debris fields hinted at 3+. Saw action on Negative 1, Dream Peak (multiple releases, E-NE aspects), sub-peaks south of Mt. Woods, southern ridge Mt. Woods, Wilson Butte (adjacent to Hwy 395, near Deadman's Summit) stopped just short of the highway. Judging from the lack of snow on the face of Carson Peak. Most of the avalanche activity appeared to have released mid to late cycle. Somewhat concerning layer ~ 130 down. Melt Freeze Crust with 2cm of facets on top. Wide range of results, due to the poor bed surface but clear results. Possible issue after more loading or where closer to the surface on steeper terrain or on bigger slopes. Melt freeze crust forming on E-S-W aspects below 9500'. Thickness depends on elevation, aspect, and air movement(sheltered locations most prone). Isolated Loose Dry on steep terrain above 9500', likely post storm cycle. Minor surface sloughing on steepe terrain. Extensive Creep Cracks under upper elevation slopes and cliff bands above ~9500.