Windshield Tour of Avalanches in Upper East River Basin

CB Avalanche Center2018-19 Observations

Location: Crested Butte Area
Date of Observation: 01/17/2019
Name: Ian Havlick

Subject: Windshield Tour of Avalanches in Upper East River Basin
Aspect: East, South East, South, South West, West
Elevation: 9-12500

Avalanches:

Several D3 avalanches observed deeper in the northern and eastern zones where 1-1.5″ snow water equivalent fell yesterday and strong winds at ridge top continued transporting snow. Surprised to see as many slides fail midstorm on southwest and west facing terrain. Aspects up to this point have lacked much avalanche activity. We are phasing out of those aspects offering safer passage in the backcountry I fear… especially with this next big wave of moisture tonight and tomorrow.

Weather: Increasing Clouds, partly cloudy, light breeze in valley, strong winds at ridgetop. Temps were milds.

Snowpack:

Photos: