Pulpit Knob, Hector Lake area.
At approximately 1300 on Feb 3, a group of skiers remotely triggered a size
1.5 slab avalanche as they skied up the SE ridge of Pulpit Knob at 2250 m
altitude.
The crown varied from 15 - 35 cm and the start zone was near ridge top in 40
degree terrain. There was the high degree of solar radiation in the time
period preceding the release, although shade temperature was -13.5 degrees
C.
Stability tests done in lower angle glades yielded moderate sudden planar
results down 35 cm on a weak facetted layer. This layer was also reactive to
ski cutting in the trees at 1900 m. See attached photos.
Grant Meekins
ACMG Alpine Guide, Assistant Ski Guide
080203 Pulpit Knob.JPG
Description: JPEG image
080203 Ski Cut (2).JPG
Description: JPEG image
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