Avalanche

Avalanche: West Desolation Ridge

M. DawsonSalt Lake
View on map

Quick report

Slope Angle
38°

Avalanche

Slab Width
12 m
Weak Layer
New Snow/Old Snow Interface
Trigger Type
Skier
Vertical Fall
15 m
Avalanche Type
Soft Slab
Slab Thickness
30 cm
Trigger Detail
Intentionally Triggered
Avalanche Problem
Cornice
Start Zone Elevation
2957 m

Prior to the avalanche, propagating cracks in the wind-drifted new snow along the ridge were easy to generate. Cornice released in a soft slab and carried into the trees below.