Avalanche

Avalanche: Birthday Chutes

ChesterSalt Lake
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Avalanche

Slab Width
21 m
Weak Layer
Density Change
Trigger Type
Skier
Avalanche Type
Soft Slab
Slab Thickness
30 cm
Start Zone Aspect
North
Avalanche Problem
Wind Slab
Start Zone Elevation
3292 m

Main threat today was wind drifted snow.

Talked to a savy skier (might report it) who just intentionally triggered this wind slab nd waas nice enough to warn us about it. think he dropped a small cornice on it or ski cut a baby cornice.

Active wind loading, Drum like feel on feet while approaching, variable crown. Skinner refilling/ on ridge every hr.

Size was small. Moved fast n loose, looked big n fast enough to carry, not bury a person. Ran 200 feet.

Better and safer riding out of wind zone.

Patchy but widespread Slide for life conditions exist in high alpine wind damaged areas.

Greenhouseing heavied up snow a bit@1pm Minor rollerballs. On drive out lcc, Loose wet rollerballs seen on north facing chutes mid elevation.