Sa While Uptracking

Craig Hartmetz , Monday 4th March, 2024 10:51PM

Resistant planar compression test results and one ECTP down 70 cm at the top of the facet layer.

Crown thickness varied from 30 cm to 1 m with an average of 50 cm. Slope angle predominantly 40 degrees, but the avalanche was initiated from a 27 degree rib (lookers left side) and pulled back onto that lower angle terrain. Depth of the weak layer was notably shallow given the visible wind loading. Perhaps this slope had previously shed during the storm.

Group was uptracking on 27 degree rib (lookers left side in photographs) separating two steeper slopes. Triggered the avalanche from a shallow location. Avalanche propagated 1 m behind the person breaking trail, and about 50 m upslope. Person caught was able to arrest safely. No injuries or lost equipment. Remainder of untracked was unaffected.