Avalanche below Crater Lake

Location Name: 
Crater Lake Road
Region: 
Carson Pass Area
Date and time of avalanche (best estimate if unknown): 
Sun, 01/17/2016 - 23:30
Location Map: 
United States
38° 43' 28.5348" N, 119° 58' 11.982" W
See map: Google Maps
US


Red Flags: 
Whumphing noises, shooting cracks, or collapsing
Recent loading by new snow, wind, or rain
Obvious avalanche path
Terrain Trap
Observation made by: Professional Observer
Avalanche Observations
Avalanche Type: 
Dry
Slab
Slope: 
40degrees
Trigger type: 
Natural
Aspect: 
Northeast
Weak Layer: 
Unknown
Avalanche Width: 
400ft.
Terrain: 
Near Treeline
Elevation: 
8 400ft.
Bed Surface: 
Unknown
Avalanche Length: 
200ft.
More detailed information about the avalanche: 

This avalanche appeared to have run around 1/17. Much of the debris was partially buried by fallen or wind blown snow but the extent of the slide could still be observed. This slide ran over the road leading up to Crater Lake and completely buried the road for approximately 300 feet. The avalanche itself was about 400 feet wide and ran about 200 feet in length at its longest point (R3D2.5). There is a steep (40+ degrees) open slope directly above the road in this area, although because of trees it is possible to travel on the road and not be aware of the steep slope above.

It is useful to remember that roads and trees are terrain traps that increase the consequences of being in an avalanche. This road is often used by folks heading to Crater Lake who may not be aware that they are exposed to avalanche terrain along the way.

Photo 1: Looking back towards the southern flank of the debris from the rough middle point of debris pile. Skier in pink jacket is standing on edge of debris pile and I am taking the photo from the rough middle of debris (because of trees and a bend in the road, it's not possible to see the entire area in one photo).

Photo 2: The first trees directly below the steep slope where the slide originated. The road is about 20 feet below these trees. Visibility was quite limited today but it was not possible to observe any remaining crown on the slope above despite looking for it in several locations. 

Photo 3: Looking down slope from the road at the section of the slide that ran the furthest. The road is constructed on a bit of natural bench and in some areas it did not appear that the slide made it past the road but it did in this section and ran about 100 feet further down slope. 

Photo 4: The upper boundary of the debris on top of the road. 

Avalanche Photos: