Front Range
AvalancheJoe Wright · Jan 5, 2020 · Front Range
Weather
Calm winds and balmy temps below treeline. Few clouds in the AM then gradual increasing cloud cover throughout the day.
Snowpack
Height of snowpack around 10,400ft in wind loaded areas was about 220-250cm deep. 2 compression tests resulted in CTH scores with resistant planar results and Q2-3 shear qualities failing 45-50cm down from the surface on buried 1mm near surface facets. Examined north facing snowpack on west side of avalanche crown. DS:205cm. The following layers were observed (measured directly from ground surface): 205-150: 4F, 150-140: F, 140-120: 1F, 120-110: 4F, <110 P. Performed an extended column test: ECTP09 - Sudden collapse at 140cm in the 150-140 layer. This layer contained noticeable facets - I didn't have my magnifier so measurements or classifications were not taken. I estimated the faucets to be about 1mm in size.
Avalanche
A small wind slab avalanche initiated while skinning towards the Hippy Trees above Lake Haiyaha in RMNP on a north-facing slope near tree line at approximately 10,600'. I was skiing with a long-time friend. Both of us recognized the slide potential, however, the risk seemed acceptable if crossed one at a time. After my ski partner crossed the path, I triggered a small wind slab slide near a small pine tree strong enough to carry me about 50 feet without any burial or injury. The avalanche slab initiated at approximately 55cm deep on a 10cm layer of faucets. I measured the slope at about 40 degrees where it initiated. It did not step down into deeper layers.