Observation: Chugach State Park

Location: Mt. Baldy

Date:

February 12, 2024 10:00

Observer:

Benjamin Gryski

Route & General Observations

Started ascent using the fire road from the Mt Baldy trailhead. The fire road was hard packed and wind blown mostly, but there were also pockets of loaded terrain. Solid slab on top of snow was causing some collapsing as the slab was on top of faceted snow. Super windy conditions with ridge lines scoured of snow.

Avalanche Details

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Avalanche Details

skier triggered avalanche in isolated terrain which was steep for no more than 5 feet. Following the slide areas of the ground were exposed.

Rescue events

Not large enough for rescue- the isolated terrain ensured the slide wouldn’t carry further than 5 feet

Red Flags

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Obvious signs of instability

Recent Avalanches?	No
Collapsing (Whumphing)?	Yes
Cracking (Shooting cracks)?	No

Weather & Snow Characteristics

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Weather

Strong winds coming East to West
33 degrees

Snow surface

Mix of wind crust and hard salads sitting on top of faceted snow

Photos & Video

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Location

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