Northwest Avalanche Center

Observation: Public

All Observations

Observation Details

Name:
Jeff Ortman
Observation Date:
April 1, 2023
Submitted:
April 1, 2023
Zone or Region:
Mt Hood
Activity:
Skiing/Snowboarding
Location:
Newton creek / Heather canyon run out

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:
Middle
Aspect:
N
Comments:
This was a traditional drop in point for those exiting Newman creek ridge into Heather canyon. I witnessed storm slabs slide near the top of Nemans ridge on either side. Upon exiting triggered 12 foot wide 8-10 crown with a heel side turn. My partner and myself went straight for tree cover.

Signs of Unstable Snow

Did you see shooting cracks? 
Yes, Widespread
Did you experience collapsing or whumpfing? 
No

Observations

I felt worried heading to Newmans creek as the hills had rolling convexes about 35 degrees. On the way up I saw my partner trigger 8-10 inch storm slabs while cresting a ridge line mound.

Media

Public Field Report: Newton creek / Heather canyon run out
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