Sawtooth Avalanche Center

Avalanche Occurrence

General Information

These persistent slab avalanches released naturally in the Paradise Ck drainage in the western Smoky Mountains, likely on Sunday or Monday (Dec 20-21). E aspect near 9000'.

Observer:
Professional

Verified by SAC?
Yes

Occurrence Date:
Dec 20, 2020 (+/- 1 day)

Location:
Pinyon

Avalanche Characteristics

# of Avys:
2
Aspect:
E (E,NE)
Start Zone Elev:
8800ft
Size:
D2 / R2
Type:
SS-Soft Slab
Trigger:
N-Natural
Bed Surface:
O-Old Snow
Depth:
1.5ft
Width:
160ft
Weak Layer:
Dec 11, 2020 (FCsf)
Comments:

"Hoochy Koo", "Light My Fuse", and "White Trash" (pinned) SVHS zones. One slide about 50m wide, one about 30 m. Also a smaller pocket (Light My Fuse area) released in between the 2 D2s, mid-track level.

Media

These persistent slab avalanches released naturally in the Paradise Ck drainage in the western Smoky Mountains, likely on Sunday or Monday (Dec 20-21). E aspect near 9000'.