Sawtooth Avalanche Center

Avalanche Occurrence

View Associated Field Report

General Information

Persistent slab avalanche apparently triggered by a skier on Banner Summit. Slab depth and terrain characteristics are consistent with early January surface hoar layer. 7250', NNW. Photo taken Jan 23rd.

Observer:
SAC Forecaster

Verified by SAC?
Yes

Occurrence Date:
Jan 21, 2023 (+/- 3 days)

Location:
South of Boundary Creek Road

Comments:

Apparently skier-triggered persistent slab in sheltered terrain at the low to middle elevation transition. Depth and terrain characteristics consistent with 1/5 surface hoar.

Avalanche Characteristics

# of Avys:
1
Aspect:
N (N,NW)
Start Zone Elev:
7250ft
Size:
D2
Type:
SS-Soft Slab
Trigger:
AS-Skier
u-Unintentional
Bed Surface:
O-Old Snow
Depth:
1.5ft
Width:
130ft
Weak Layer:
Jan 5, 2023 (SH)
Comments:

Characteristics estimated from mediocre photo

Media

Persistent slab avalanche apparently triggered by a skier on Banner Summit. Slab depth and terrain characteristics are consistent with early January surface hoar layer. 7250', NNW. Photo taken Jan 23rd.