I agree. I have been taking courses. Wouldn't consider venturing forth without education and experienced partners.
The pictures almost make it look like the slope is greater than 30 degrees. There was a known weak layer under the snow and the bulletins reflected that information.
With the sun...
I am a complete neophyte, but trying to educate myself before eventually taking trips into the mountains, so feel free to flame away.
In reading this thread, I see some posts that appear to express surprise or shock at the breadth of the avalanche. In my (admittedly) limited scope of education...