Today we investigated a slide on an east facing slope in the Bridger Range, just north of Ross Peak. The avalanche occurred on Thursday or Friday (March 21 or 22) after a snowstorm with wind loading. The weather stayed well below freezing until yesterday (Monday, March 25th). The sun melted the snow and water percolated down to the older and inpermeable melt-freeze crust. The water then flowed on top of this layer accelerating downhill creep. The water was frozen on the underside of the slab when we investigated. It's the first time I have ever seen this. Super cool. Photo: D. Chabot
Forecast link: GNFAC Avalanche Advisory for Wed Mar 27, 2013