12-13

A well developed layer of near surface facets was found at 8500 ft on a NW facing slope above Quake Lake.  This layer consistently propagated during stability tests.  This layer should be looked for and assessed before jumping into avalanche terrain.  Photo GNFAC   

This slope near West Yellowstone (here) was loaded by north winds and was likely triggered by snowmobilers.  Areas where the snowpack is thin, specifically near ridgelines or rock bands will be likely areas to trigger a slide.  Photo GNFAC  

A razor thin layer of facets, 1.5 feet under the surface, are breaking clean in our stability tests (ECTP17 and 21).  Last Saturday, skiers triggered avalanches on this.  It can be found on most aspects. Photo: GNFAC