Several natural avalanches in the Desolation wilderness

Location Name: 
Desolation Wilderness
Region: 
Desolation Wilderness Area (including Emerald Bay)
Date and time of avalanche (best estimate if unknown): 
Fri, 02/18/2011 - 12:00
Location Map: 
United States
38° 54' 23.4216" N, 120° 6' 48.492" W
See map: Google Maps
US


Red Flags: 
Recent avalanche activity
Whumphing noises, shooting cracks, or collapsing
Recent loading by new snow, wind, or rain
Obvious avalanche path
Observation made by: Forecaster
Avalanche Observations
Avalanche Type: 
dry,slab,
Slope: 
38degrees
Trigger type: 
Natural
Crown Height: 
3 ft
Aspect: 
Northeast
Weak Layer: 
Storm Snow
Avalanche Width: 
200ft.
Terrain: 
Near Treeline
Elevation: 
9 000ft.
Bed Surface: 
Storm Snow
Avalanche Length: 
600ft.
Number of similar avalanches: 
5-10
More detailed information about the avalanche: 

These slides most likely occured during the day on Friday (2-18-11). The crown, flanks, bed surface, and debris had been covered by new snow. These slides most likely occurred within the storm snow. The location represents the avalanche farthest right in the photo.

Photo: Panorama of the Desolation Wilderness showing several natural avalanches.

Avalanche Photos: 
Weather Observations
Air temperature: 
Precipitation: 
Air temperature trend: 
Wind Direction: 
Accumulation rate: 
More detailed information about the weather: