Natural avalanches on Hidden Peak

Location Name: 
Hidden Peak
Region: 
West Shore Area
Date and time of avalanche (best estimate if unknown): 
Fri, 01/15/2016 - 00:00
Location Map: 
United States
38° 58' 34.6116" N, 120° 7' 16.734" W
See map: Google Maps
US


Red Flags: 
Recent avalanche activity
Recent loading by new snow, wind, or rain
Obvious avalanche path
Observation made by: Forecaster
Avalanche Observations
Avalanche Type: 
Dry
Slab
Trigger type: 
Natural
Crown Height: 
2 ft
Aspect: 
Northeast
Weak Layer: 
Old Snow
Terrain: 
Below Treeline
Elevation: 
8 800ft.
Bed Surface: 
Old Snow
Number of similar avalanches: 
3
More detailed information about the avalanche: 

Three avalanches observed in the "Goat Cliffs" area of Hidden Peak (noted lat/long, NE aspect, 8,500 to 9,000'). All three appeared to have occurred naturally. Timing is either late yesterday afternoon or predawn this morning. A few inches of new snow covered the debris. Two avalanches were low on the slope below treeline and one was on the upper portion of the slope near treeline. All three occurred in steep terrain with slopes angles likely in excess of 35 degrees. Crown heights were in the two foot range. Buried surface hoar is a likely week layer for these avalanches, especially the two low on the slope.

Avalanche Photos: