Northwest Avalanche Center

Observation: Public

All Observations

Observation Details

Name:
Andrew Richardson
Observation Date:
January 8, 2021
Submitted:
January 8, 2021
Zone or Region:
Snoqualmie Pass
Activity:
Skiing/Snowboarding
Location:
Snoquamie Mtn, Avalanche Mtn

Triggered Avalanches

Did you trigger any avalanches? 
Yes
Was it intentional? 
No
Avalanche Type:
Soft Slab
Size:
Size 1: Relatively harmless to people
Elevation:
5200’
Aspect:
N
Comments:
Small skier-triggered storm slab release 4”-6” crown ran less than 20’. R1-D1.

Observed Avalanches

Did you observe any avalanches? 
Yes
Avalanche Type:
Soft Slab
Size:
Size 1: Relatively harmless to people
Elevation:
4400’-5000’
Aspect:
N
Comments:
Numerous natural storm slab crowns up to 12”along cliff bases and steep terrain features observed in northerly aspects. Possible natural wind slab crown on N aspect, ~4600’.
Photo:

Signs of Unstable Snow

None reported

Observations

Stiff wind slabs observed on west aspect near ridge lines above 5200’. Ski cuts broke about 4” down with no cracking or propagation beyond skis.

Media

Natural crown. N aspect, 5000’.
Even micro storm slabs were seen on small features. Larger crown also visible under cliffs. NE aspect 5000’
Natural storm slab crowns. N aspect, 4400’.
Larger natural storm or wind slab crowns N aspect., ~4600’
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