Gunnison
AvalancheEric Roberts | Ben Ammon · Jan 28, 2022 · Gunnison
Weather
Clear skies AM/PM with valley fog (8,000’) early morning out of forecast area to the south Calm winds with sporadic, light NW winds ATL -8°F @ 9,300 (0800) : strong inversion NTL NO precipitation
Snowpack
Snowpack was a mixed bag at all elevations with the best quality snow being held in wind-sheltered terrain in pockets, North facing ATL-NTL. We encountered widespread, audible collapsing BTL initially touring out of East River, but encountered localized collapsing in exposed terrain ATL and along ridge lines. Wind-packed pockets have slab quality and desperately want to slide but potentially a lack of continuity with some slope to keep them stubborn on exposed, North facing terrain.
Avalanche
During our tour, a hard slab was remotely triggered from approx 50 ft. downslope of an near a 34°Convexity, adjacent to White Rock Mountains southern ridgeline at 12,590’. Crown ranged from 2”-12”, averaging 8”, 40’ in width. This potential wind slab moved with building energy as it slid approx. 300’ downslope. Failure plane was above a stout Melt-freeze crust on small facets. (Not measured) Skier was not affected, but anyone could have been put off balance if on slope.