Slab release on Elephant Back

Location Name: 
Shoulder of Elephant Back above large shelf
Region: 
Carson Pass Area
Date and time of avalanche (best estimate if unknown): 
Mon, 11/27/2017 - 12:00


Red Flags: 
Recent loading by new snow, wind, or rain
Observation made by: Public
Avalanche Observations
Trigger type: 
Human-Triggered Cornice Collapse
Weak Layer: 
New/old snow interface
Avalanche Width: 
200ft.
Terrain: 
Above Treeline
Elevation: 
9 200ft.
Bed Surface: 
Storm Snow
Avalanche Length: 
30ft.
More detailed information about the avalanche: 

I ventured above the shelf to test out the stability and the pack in general was bomber. About a foot deep, right side up and well bonded to the firm layer below. I decided to head up and get through the small cornice (or ridgeline slab) on a relatively flat spot above a rock. As the tips of my skis hit the downhill portion of the slab the entire slab released. As mentioned the pack below was bomber so the slab only traveled about 10-30', except for about a 15' wide section that went about 80'. The area surrounding me over the small rock just settle due to the low angle.

Avalanche Photos: 
Weather Observations
Blowing Snow: 
No
Cloud Cover: 
25% of the sky covered by clouds
Air temperature: 
Below Freezing
Wind Speed: 
Calm
Wind Direction: 
East