Northwest Avalanche Center

Observation: Public

All Observations

Observation Details

Name:
Connor Lemma
Observation Date:
January 24, 2021
Submitted:
January 26, 2021
Zone or Region:
West South
Activity:
XC Skiing/Snowshoeing
Location:
Carter Falls TH @ Mt. Rainier

Observed Avalanches

Did you observe any avalanches? 
Yes
Avalanche Type:
Other
Size:
Size 1: Relatively harmless to people
Elevation:
~4220
Aspect:
W
Comments:
All I could see was a large cloud of snow that proceeded from the top of the slope to the bottom.

Signs of Unstable Snow

None reported

Observations

I was across Paradise River at the time and I looked over when I heard a crack and a falling noise. I saw the avalanche proceed down the slope. On Caltopo afterwards it looked like a terrain trap with a steep gully. We stayed away from that area for avy danger but it was close enough to easy access that people may not be aware of the danger and unintentionally be in the area exploring and be trapped. It had also been snowing for roughly 3 hours at that time.

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