Avalanche

Avalanche: Silver Fork Headwall

Nic and CaseySalt Lake
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Avalanche

Weak Layer
Depth Hoar
Trigger Type
Natural
Avalanche Type
Hard Slab
Trigger Detail
Repeater
Start Zone Aspect
North
Avalanche Problem
Persistent Weak Layer
Start Zone Elevation
2835 m

Came across this interesting pocket while traveling from East Silver Fork Bowl to West Bowl. Appeared to be a natural, likely triggered from cornice fall. While shallow wind slabs were the main focus of the day this slide appeared to be a deep slab that likely slid on an old and forgotten persistent weak layer from who know when. The crown appeared to be large in depth and while it didn't propagate too far the debris pile was impressive and appeared to pack a punch. Something to consider I guess.

FORECASTER COMMENTS: This slope has avalanched twice this winter and would suspect that a cornice trigger was likely for this event.

another photo by alex.d.halliday