Gunnison

Avalanche

Crested Butte Avalanche Center · Dec 13, 2019 · Gunnison

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Weather

OVC throughout tour from 1430-1700. Break in the storm provided light winds, little to no snowfall. S2 rates started by the time I reached 11k. Westerly winds picked up during my transition causing heavy snow transport along visible ridges.

Snowpack

The higher in elevation, the denser the slab felt through pole probing and quick hand puts. Especially drifted areas. I did get some small collapses but nothing substantial. Slope angles were kept in check and all steep terrain was avoided. Snow totals at 11k were 9 inches.

Avalanche

From the car (estimated) R1D2 SE face baldy E face Emmons ridge 11.5k R1D1.5 gouged into scree at the ground on this 40 degree+ (estimate) crown was partially filled by the time I saw this approximately 24 inch deep slide.