Avalanche Occurrence

Observer:

NWAC Observer

Occurrence Date:

Jan 18, 2023 ()

Location:

Blue Lake Peak

Comments:

A rather large avalanche released naturally on the north side of blue Lake peak. This avalanche released on the Christmas crust and stepped down near the ground on Nov. facets. The crown runs the width of the rock face of Blue Lake Peak and appears to extend just underneath the cornice at the col. It's possible some cornice fall was included in the avalanche.

# of Avys:

1

Aspect:

N

Start Zone Elev:

7580ft

Size:

D3 / R3

Type:

HS-Hard Slab

Trigger:

N-Natural

Bed Surface:

O-Old Snow

Depth:

5ft (max: 8ft)

Width:

1640ft

Start Zone Slope:

45°

Vertical Fall:

375ft

Weak Layer:

Dec 25, 2022 (MF) Nov 22, 2022 (FC)

Two interfaces were involved in this natural avalanche; just above the Christmas crust and within/ above the late November crusts, now large facets. (N 7580'; HS-N-D3-R3-O)