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Payette Avalanche Center

Public Observation

Observation Details

Observation Date:
January 15, 2023
Submitted:
January 17, 2023
Zone or Region:
West Mountain Area
Activity:
Snowmobiling/Snowbiking
Location:
Bowl on West side of Mica Ridge

Triggered Avalanches

Did you trigger any avalanches? 
Yes
Was it intentional? 
No
Avalanche Type:
Soft Slab
Size:
Size 2: Could bury, injure, or kill a person
Elevation:
7500
Aspect:
W
Comments:
Triggered with snowmobile on lower angle slope below steeper terrain. Rider was able to ride out of slide. Estimate crown at least 200 yds wide and 1-2+ ft deep. Debris pile probably 15 ft deep.
Photo:

Observed Avalanches

Did you observe any avalanches? 
Yes
Avalanche Type:
Size:
Elevation:
Aspect:
Comments:

Signs of Unstable Snow

Did you see shooting cracks? 
Yes, Widespread
Did you experience collapsing or whumpfing? 
Yes, Widespread

Observations

Triggered at least 3 other slides remotely in the Poison Lake area on various other aspects, N, NE, E.
Most sensitive conditions I've ever experienced.

Media

Sled trigger next to larger slide on West side of Mica Ridge
Sled trigger next to larger slide on West side of Mica Ridge
Large slide above Poison Lake triggered by sled on shelf above.
Large slide above Poison Lake triggered by sled on shelf above.
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