Avalanche

Avalanche: Gold Basin

TrenbeathMoab
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Quick report

Slope Angle
40°

Avalanche

Slab Width
76 m
Weak Layer
Facets
Trigger Type
Natural
Vertical Fall
183 m
Avalanche Type
Soft Slab
Slab Thickness
107 cm
Start Zone Aspect
North
Avalanche Problem
Wind Slab
Start Zone Elevation
3597 m

This slide was observed from a distance and appeared to be the result of recently deposited wind drifted snow overloading a persistent weak layer. On Friday, Nov 30, we received 10" of new followed by 20" more on Sunday with mostly light winds. This came in on top of about a 24" base that had been sitting around since mid October. No natural activity beyond loose sloughing was observed from this storm cycle. About 0400 this morning, SW winds increased into the 25-35 mph range with gusts to 40. This continued most of the day, and the avalanche was observed around 1100. A smaller, but similar in character avalanche occurred in close proximity.