Forecaster Observation - Noisy/Jewel Basin, Swan Range

Location Name: 
Forecaster Observation - Noisy/Jewel Basin, Swan Range
Region: 
Swan Range - West Side (Flathead Valley access)
Date and time of avalanche (best estimate if unknown): 
Wed, 02/22/2017 - 12:30
Location Map: 

Red Flags: 
Recent loading by new snow, wind, or rain
Observation made by: Forecaster
Avalanche Observations
Avalanche Type: 
Dry
Slope: 
40degrees
Trigger type: 
Skier
Crown Height: 
Less than 1 ft
Aspect: 
Northwest
Weak Layer: 
Within storm snow
Avalanche Width: 
100ft.
Terrain: 
Near Treeline
Elevation: 
6 800ft.
Bed Surface: 
Old Snow
More detailed information about the avalanche: 

We observed a recent (previous 48 hours) skier triggered avalanche near the top of Crown Bowl at the head of Noisy Basin. This storm/wind slab avalanche was triggered on steep slope and appeared to have a shallow (estimated 6 inch) crown height at the trigger point. The snow moved through a narrow chute and propagated approximately 50 feet in each direction after exiting the chute. Crown heights at this point were estimated at 12 inches.

Avalanche Photos: 
Weather Observations
Blowing Snow: 
No
Cloud Cover: 
50% of the sky covered by clouds
Air temperature: 
Below Freezing
Wind Speed: 
Calm (No air motion)
Precipitation: 
None
Air temperature trend: 
Static
Accumulation rate: 
None
Activity: 
Skiing