Sawtooth Avalanche Center

Avalanche Occurrence

General Information

A skier triggered this slide on a N-NW aspect near 9600' on Galena Peak.

Observer:
Professional

Verified by SAC?
Yes

Occurrence Date:
Apr 6, 2021 (Exact)

Location:
Galena Peak - Senate Ck

Comments:

Slide was skier-triggered late morning/early afternoon down low in the NW cirque of Galena Peak.

Avalanche Characteristics

# of Avys:
1
Aspect:
NW (N,NW)
Start Zone Elev:
9600ft
Size:
D1.5
Type:
U-Unknown
Trigger:
AS-Skier
Bed Surface:
O-Old Snow
Depth:
1ft (max: 3ft)
Width:
80ft
Comments:

This slide failed on weak, faceted snow low in the snowpack, likely on December or January facets. The slope was wind-affected. The slab broke about 30-40' above the skier. The skier was not caught.

Media

A skier triggered this slide on a N-NW aspect near 9600' on Galena Peak.
View of crown of skier triggered slab on Galena Peak.
Skier triggered slab avalanche on a N-NW aspect near 9600' on Galena Peak.