Avalanche

Avalanche: Moonlight

Agardy / PaulineSalt Lake
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Avalanche

Weak Layer
Density Change
Trigger Type
Natural
Vertical Fall
305 m
Avalanche Type
Soft Slab
Start Zone Aspect
North
Avalanche Problem
New Snow
Start Zone Elevation
2987 m

While pulling skins in high Moonlight ~ 9500 ft around 12:30 pm, 3 natural slides descended down the main apron - in rapid order - narrowly missing us. We were situated

on a tiny subridge beneath a stand of trees. Zero wind and extremely high precipitation rates. New snow was perhaps 16-18". On our first lap we experienced no instabilities - yet with the high PI rate - maybe 3-4" had been added on the 2nd lap- leading to what we all concluded was just new snow instability in steep avalanche terrain. It appeared they all originated at the ridge - maybe 500' above our position and continued approximately 500' below our position. Left a fairly impressive debris field. Would have been enough to knock you down and take you for a ride,

Also - on our first lap - I cut off one of the low rolls at the bottom, right above the road - I estimate 12" deep and 50' across - also just in the new snow as well.

Decided it was a good time to call it a day and chalk up to experience - don't forget about new snow above yer head when its snowing at 2" / hr. No photos.