Avalanche

Avalanche: North Creek - Abajo Mtns.

TrenbeathAbajos
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Avalanche

Slab Width
46 m
Weak Layer
Facets
Trigger Type
Natural
Vertical Fall
61 m
Avalanche Type
Hard Slab
Slab Thickness
76 cm
Start Zone Aspect
Northeast
Avalanche Problem
Persistent Weak Layer
Start Zone Elevation
3109 m

After a dry first three weeks of January, and limited snowfall through Oct, Nov, and Dec, the underlying snowpack was very weak and faceted. Approximately 32" of snow and 2.5" SWE fell between Jan 22-30. A three day period of sustained 25-35 mph southerly winds occurred mid-week, in between storm systems. I'm thinking that this slide occurred during the wind event that began on the 26th due to the slope's proclivity for south wind loading.

The crown line extends behind the trees and is more than double the width shown in the photo.