Avalanche

Bench/Fishhook Huts

Jon PreussSawtooth & Western Smoky Mtns
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Quick report

We observed periods of “white rain” on the approach to Bench Hut with no notable new snow accumulation from the AR event. This location appeared to be in the precip shadow of the westerly flow. The snowpack at the hut was soggy and shallow, measuring 32 cm at the study plot stake. Lower-elevation snow coverage noticeably decreased between our approach on 12/9 and departure on 12/10. Visibility improved on the descent, allowing views across much of the Williams area. We were only able to identify a single large avalanche on “Dave Dog” Peak. The Bench Hut study plot recorded 2.41 inches of SWE between 11/21 and 12/10.

Avalanche

Size
D2
Aspect
NE
Trigger
N
Elevation
9200 ft

We observed many wet loose avalanches near SE facing rock bands on Williams Peak, Monolith Valley, and other nearby cirques. They happened at mid elevation slopes.