Sawtooth Avalanche Center

Avalanche Occurrence

General Information

This very large avalanche released on a NE-facing slope at 9,400' in the western Smokys. It occured sometime near the end of the storm around Christmas Day. Photo: Sun Valley Heli Ski

Observer:
Professional

Verified by SAC?
Yes

Occurrence Date:
Dec 26, 2021 (+/- 1 day)

Location:
Paradise Creek

Avalanche Characteristics

# of Avys:
1
Aspect:
NE
Start Zone Elev:
9400ft
Size:
D2.5 / R3
Type:
SS-Soft Slab
Trigger:
N-Natural
Bed Surface:
O-Old Snow
Width:
820ft
Start Zone Slope:
40°
Vertical Fall:
700ft
Weak Layer:
Dec 11, 2021 (FC)

Media

This very large avalanche released on a NE-facing slope at 9,400' in the western Smokys. It occured sometime near the end of the storm around Christmas Day. Photo: Sun Valley Heli Ski