Avalanche
- Weak Layer
- Density Change
- Trigger Type
- Natural
- Avalanche Type
- Soft Slab
- Trigger Detail
- Cornice Triggered
- Start Zone Aspect
- North
- Avalanche Problem
- Wind Slab
- Start Zone Elevation
- 2743 m
Ascending CP4, we had just stopped to transition to booter on the observer right of the gully at 6,426' when the avalanche slide engulfed the gully and took me for a ride.
Luckily, skis were already off my back and I was on the edge of the path as it drug me down the gully. I was pulled over some willows but able to stay on top and kick to the bottom to stay up right. Carried for 60meters or so. The debris field was close to 2meters in the middle of the gully and buried my two ski and poles and one of my partners as he was able to arrest on top of one them.
We searched for a minute then left due to continued wind loading and that uncomfortable feeling staying in the slide path.
Forecaster Comments: Strong E/NE winds aloft and strong down canyon winds drifting and loading unusual terrain this morning. Best guess is that these winds led to natural cornice fall near the top (9000') which in turn triggered either a loose dry new snow and/or shallow soft slab of wind drifted snow.
Incident
- Number Caught
- 2
- Number Carried
- 1