3/13-3/14 Avalanche Cycle on Castle Peak

Location Name: 
North Side Castle Peak
Region: 
Donner Summit Area
Date and time of avalanche (best estimate if unknown): 
Mon, 03/14/2016 - 09:00
Location Map: 
United States
39° 21' 53.1108" N, 120° 20' 52.9548" W
See map: Google Maps
US


Red Flags: 
Recent avalanche activity
Recent loading by new snow, wind, or rain
Observation made by: Forecaster
Avalanche Observations
Avalanche Type: 
Dry
Slab
Trigger type: 
Natural
Weak Layer: 
Storm Snow
Terrain: 
Near Treeline
Elevation: 
8 800ft.
More detailed information about the avalanche: 

Avalanche activity observed on the morning of Wednesday 3/16.

Several avalanches on the north side of Castle Peak thought to have occurred during or immediately after the 3/13-3/14 storm cycle.  The largest avalanche occurred under the peak and ran over towards the North gully system.  Approximately 500' wide, ran 800' downslope well into the flats with a large debris pile that was covered up by additional snow.  Appeared to be naturally triggered , potentially with cornice collapse.  N-NE aspect, wind loaded terrain, 38-42 degrees start zones, crown line up to 3-4' deep.

Avalanche Photos: