Observation: Public
Observation Details
Name:
Rob FallonObservation Date:
February 11, 2023Submitted:
February 11, 2023Zone or Region:
Stevens PassActivity:
Skiing/SnowboardingLocation:
South Stevens Backcountry - Shoulda SkiiedTriggered Avalanches
Did you trigger any avalanches?
YesWas it intentional?
NoAvalanche Type:
Soft SlabSize:
Size 2: Could bury, injure, or kill a personElevation:
5400Aspect:
NEComments:
60cm soft slab, ~100' wideSigns 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
