Forecaster Observation-Demers Ridge, Whitefish Range-Southern

Location Name: 
Forecaster Observation-Demers Ridge, Whitefish Range-Southern
Region: 
Whitefish Range - Southern (south of Coal Creek)
Date and time of avalanche (best estimate if unknown): 
Wed, 02/15/2017 - 10:30
Location Map: 


Observation made by: Forecaster
Avalanche Observations
Avalanche Type: 
Slab
Trigger type: 
Natural
Aspect: 
South
Elevation: 
5 800ft.
More detailed information about the avalanche: 

Viewed this avalanche from the North Fork Road the Wednesday morning,15 February 2017.

South facing avalanche chute.

Demers Ridge/North Fork Flathead

Guessing this is a natural avalanche from Feb 3-10 cycle.

Debris within 50 feet of North Fork Road.

Crown at approximately 5800 feet.

Debris ran full path to 3430 feet.  (approximately 2370 feet vertical)

Estimating SS-NS-R4-D3.  It appeared to have been a soft slab in the starting zone and then likely entrained some moister snow as it proceeded down the path.

Avalanche Photos: 
Weather Observations
Blowing Snow: 
No
Cloud Cover: 
75% of the sky covered by clouds
Air temperature: 
Above Freezing
Wind Speed: 
Calm (No air motion)
Precipitation: 
None
Air temperature trend: 
Warming