Sawtooth Avalanche Center

Avalanche Occurrence

General Information

This slow-moving slide was triggered by a snowmobiler in the northern Sawtooths on a NE aspect at around 8,000'. Riders crossed the slope 6-8 times before it released. Based on the depth and appearance of the crown, it likely failed on a weak layer buried in early January. We'll share details as we learn more. 

Observer:
Public

Verified by SAC?
Yes

Occurrence Date:
Jan 20, 2023 (Exact)

Location:
Stanley Lake Creek

Comments:

This slow-moving slide was triggered by a snowmobiler in the northern Sawtooths on a NE aspect at around 8,000'. It took 6-8 tracks on the slope before it released. Based on the depth and appearance of the crown, it likely failed on a weak layer buried in early January. Location is very approximate.

Avalanche Characteristics

# of Avys:
1
Aspect:
NE
Start Zone Elev:
8000ft
Size:
D1.5
Trigger:
AM-Snowmobile
u-Unintentional
Bed Surface:
O-Old Snow
Weak Layer:
Jan 5, 2023 (SH)
Comments:

Characteristics estimated from photo. Elevation and aspect are approximate and from the reporting party.

Media

This slow-moving slide was triggered by a snowmobiler in the northern Sawtooths on a NE aspect at around 8,000'. Riders crossed the slope 6-8 times before it released. Based on the depth and appearance of the crown, it likely failed on a weak layer buried in early January. We'll share details as we learn more. 
(1/20/2023) This slow-moving slide was triggered by a snowmobiler in the northern Sawtooths on a NE aspect at around 8,000'. It took 6-8 tracks on the slope before it released. Based on the depth and appearance of the crown, it likely failed on a weak layer buried in early January. We'll share details as we learn more.