Observation: Public

Name:

Hunter M

Observation Date:

April 2, 2023

Submitted:

April 3, 2023

Zone or Region:

West South

Activity:

Skiing/Snowboarding

Location:

Bullion Basin

Did you observe any avalanches?

Yes

Avalanche Type:

Soft Slab

Size:

Size 1: Relatively harmless to people

Elevation:

6,100

Aspect:

SE

Comments:

Observed a small skier triggered avalanche on the eastern side of Platinum Peak. It occurred on a steep (>40) E,SE facing roll below treeline. It exhibited signs of a very soft slab, breaking above the crust 6-10" deep and propagating more down than across. About 20' wide and and ran about 30' down. It appears the rider was able to easily ride out and avoid the small runout.

None reported

We observed stronger sun effect on east facing aspects due to morning sun, followed by clouds and snow flurries from midday on. The only sign of instability we saw was the very small avalanche reported above, which broke on a steep face, did not propagate or travel far, and may have been warmed and slabbed up due to morning solar effects. In general snow appeared well bonded to crust layers below, with any sluffing occurring within the storm layers.