Quick report
- Slope Angle
- 39°
Avalanche
- Slab Width
- 18 m
- Weak Layer
- Density Change
- Trigger Type
- Skier
- Vertical Fall
- 152 m
- Avalanche Type
- Soft Slab
- Slab Thickness
- 36 cm
- Trigger Detail
- Intentionally Triggered
- Start Zone Aspect
- Northeast
- Avalanche Problem
- New Snow
- Start Zone Elevation
- 3170 m
Buried wind slabs along exposed N, E, and W aspect ridgelines were sensitive to slope cuts and cornice stomping. We triggered several along on our tour and noticed some commonalities that helped us manage the hazard. Each fracture initiated in the wind-exposed first few feet below upper-elevation ridgetops and only propagated below ski cuts. Though the slabs were on the small side, they were fast-running and entrained unconsolidated snow as they moved.
I wouldn't want to be below one that was cut loose by someone else, but with good route selection and thoughtful slope cuts the hazard felt manageable to our experienced party.