Natural on Fire Plug

Location Name: 
Fire Plug (Mt. Rose Highway)
Region: 
Mount Rose Area
Date and time of avalanche (best estimate if unknown): 
Mon, 12/17/2012 - 15:00


Red Flags: 
Recent avalanche activity
Recent loading by new snow, wind, or rain
Obvious avalanche path
Observation made by: Professional Observer
Avalanche Observations
Avalanche Type: 
slab,
Slope: 
40degrees
Trigger type: 
Natural
Crown Height: 
1 ft
Aspect: 
East
Weak Layer: 
Storm Snow
Terrain: 
Near Treeline
Elevation: 
9 000ft.
Bed Surface: 
Storm Snow
Avalanche Length: 
200ft.
More detailed information about the avalanche: 

 I noticed a wide crown at the top of the Fire Plug Peak off the Mt. Rose Highway while I was riding the Northwest Lift at Mt. Rose this afternoon. I'd estimate the crown at around a foot and roughly 200 feet wide running to the trees at the bottom. I didn't notice any tracks in the area and I don't have a good idea of the time it occured but based on the crown and debris pile I'd say it was around 3pm.  

Avalanche Photos: 
Weather Observations
Blowing Snow: 
Yes
Air temperature: 
Wind Speed: 
Moderate
Precipitation: 
Snow
Air temperature trend: 
Static
Wind Direction: 
Southwest
Accumulation rate: 
Less than 1 in. per hour
More detailed information about the weather: