Observation: NWAC Forecaster

All Observations

Basic Information

Observation Details

Observation Date:
March 19, 2022
Submitted:
March 20, 2022
Observer:
NWAC Forecaster - Lee Lazzara
Zone or Region:
West North
Location:
Swift Creek (4200' - 4800' all aspects)

Signs of Unstable Snow

Recent Avalanches? 
Yes
Cracking? 
Widespread
Collapsing? 
None Experienced

Advanced Information

Weather Summary

Cloud Cover:
Overcast
Wind:
Moderate , SW
New/Recent Snowfall:
+45 over 3/18 interface/old snow surface

S-2 > S-5 up to day 10:00 then began to back off, winds varied between light and moderate with moderate snow transport, felt like a warm up on tap with overhead clouds beginning to thin out at noon upon leaving field

Avalanche Observations

 #  Date Location Size Type Bed Sfc Depth Trigger Photos Details
12 Mar 19, 2022
() 		Table-Austin-Swift
N ft 		D2 SS-Soft Slab S-New Snow 1ft N-Natural
Natural storm slab avalanche at Austin Pass. It propagated another 150-200' around past the bulge on the right.  D1.5 on a northwest aspect @ 4600'.
Widely propagating storm slab avalanche near the Martha's Ladder summer trail on Table Mt.
Naturally triggered storm slab avalanche low in Swift Creek. D1 - east aspect @ 4400'.
Widely propagating, naturally triggered storm slab avalanche low in Swift Creek. This many other avalanches in the new snow occurred during heavy snowfall at the start of the day on Saturday. D1.5 - south aspect @ 4300'.
Looking up from the debris of a skier triggered avalanche on an east aspect at 4700' in Swift Creek. Photo: Robert Hahn
Report
Table-Austin-Swift

Widespread natural avalanche cycle with half dozen D1-2 observed from Austin pass to 10 Min Trees, Martha's Ladder areas, and under Blueberry Cornices. Touchy slabs - was able to trigger entire slopes from ridgeline without having to tip toe to the edge of steeper terrain. 20-45cm deep, all observed appeared to release in new snow layers. Poor visibility so couldn't see farther into Upper Bagely or anywhere else . . .

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