Northwest Avalanche Center

Observation: Public

All Observations

Observation Details

Name:
Rob Fallon
Observation Date:
February 11, 2023
Submitted:
February 11, 2023
Zone or Region:
Stevens Pass
Activity:
Skiing/Snowboarding
Location:
South Stevens Backcountry - Shoulda Skiied

Triggered Avalanches

Did you trigger any avalanches? 
Yes
Was it intentional? 
No
Avalanche Type:
Soft Slab
Size:
Size 2: Could bury, injure, or kill a person
Elevation:
5400
Aspect:
NE
Comments:
60cm soft slab, ~100' wide

Signs of Unstable Snow

None reported

Observations

Two parties (3 skiers and 4 skiers) that new each other and familiar with terrain. Avalanche was triggered by 2nd skier on slope as he cut a small unsupported feature on the slope. Skier was caught and carried ~100' downslope and buried in trees.
Skier's face was clear on the downslope side of the trees and his boots were visible. Otherwise buried and unable to self rescue. Located by voice/visual with beacon assist. Recovery took ~10 minutes to clear and extract skier.
No injuries other than bruising and shock. All equipment recovered.
60cm soft slab release on a crust layer. Faceting above the crust. ECT on connected slope did not produce results that would have hinted at a larger problem.

Media

crown - skiers right
Public Field Report: South Stevens Backcountry - Shoulda Skiied
Public Field Report: South Stevens Backcountry - Shoulda Skiied
~locaton of skier when avalanche started.  lookin up at crown
skier carried down into smaller trees (skiers in photo)
Public Field Report: South Stevens Backcountry - Shoulda Skiied
Public Field Report: South Stevens Backcountry - Shoulda Skiied
Showing the toe of the debris, aprx 4,800ft
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