Skier/rider triggered D1 Avalanche on Ralston

Location Name: 
Ralston
Region: 
Echo Summit Area
Date and time of avalanche (best estimate if unknown): 
Thu, 12/16/2010 - 16:51
Location Map: 
United States
38° 50' 25.836" N, 120° 6' 6.93" W
See map: Google Maps
US


Red Flags: 
Recent loading by new snow, wind, or rain
Observation made by: Public
Avalanche Observations
Avalanche Type: 
slab,
Slope: 
30degrees
Trigger type: 
Other - explain below
Crown Height: 
Less than 1 ft
Aspect: 
Northeast
Weak Layer: 
Storm Snow
Avalanche Width: 
50ft.
Terrain: 
Above Treeline
Elevation: 
8 000ft.
Bed Surface: 
Storm Snow
Avalanche Length: 
75ft.
Number of similar avalanches: 
1
More detailed information about the avalanche: 

The third person down this slope triggered the slide, just above Ralston Lake. The slide was slow moving and didn't run very far. The surface snow had clearly been  wind effected.

When our group entered Ralston Bowl one member chose a steeper line and midway through the short steep section released another small slab. None of the lower angle entrance lines released anything.

 

 

Avalanche Photos: 
Weather Observations
Blowing Snow: 
Yes
Cloud Cover: 
Clear
Air temperature: 
Below Freezing
Wind Speed: 
Light
Precipitation: 
Air temperature trend: 
Wind Direction: 
Southwest
Accumulation rate: 
More detailed information about the weather: