This zone is out of our forecast area and gets significantly more wind. Technically the avalanche failed on a crust (likely Feb 26) and stepped down into what looks like basal facets. By looking at the depth of the avalanche it appears it already slid previously this season. The isolated avalanche tells us that significant wind can be enough of a load to trigger large deep avalanches in isolated locations with a shallower snowpack or that have previously slid this season.
Avalanche: Hatcher Pass
Location: Souvenir peak- out of forecast zone
Toured back mint valley which has seen lots of skier traffic. Lots of localized wind effect made for variable skiing conditions. Noted large deep slab coming off the southern peak of souvenir. Did not investigate crown but looks like it failed at the ground, may have been triggered by cornice collapse. To the left and right were crowns that looked like they had released, but since filled back in. Unclear when it released, but likely during the last few days. Good reminder that given proper conditions avalanches are possible on depth hoar. Skied another shot that was different aspect.
Forecaster Comments
| Trigger | Unknown | Remote Trigger | Unknown |
| Avalanche Type | Hard Slab | Aspect | West |
| Elevation | 5500ft | Slope Angle | unknown |
| Crown Depth | 6ft | Width | 300ft |
| Vertical Run | 2000ft |
Avalanche Details
Persistent slab failing at the base of some cliffs, looks like it was likely triggered by a cornice fall over the last few days. Sympathetic wind slab releases lower down, without propagation
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See old crowns to lookers left that have since been filled in