Wind Slabs
- Hochgebirge
- Waldgrenze
- Unterhalb der Waldgrenze
- Wahrscheinlichkeit
- Possible
- Größe
- 1–2
Wind exposed terrain has been highly affected by recent winds over the last several days. Gale force SW winds late Wed night into Thursday morning followed by two days of strong NE winds have left their mark. A patchwork of rough wind scoured, dense wind slab, and firm icy surfaces exist near treeline and above treeline. Unstable wind slabs may linger today in near and above treeline terrain on any aspect.
Snow surface cracking may occur around the edges of these slabs, especially where they are thin. Thicker unstable hard slabs may not show cracking and may allow a person to travel far out onto the slab before an avalanche occurs. Hard slabs may feel or sound hollow underfoot. Wind exposed avalanche terrain that appears more filled in, smoother, and less scoured than surrounding areas remains suspect for human triggered avalanches today. Consider avoiding any suspect terrain. Cornices along ridgetops are very large and should be given a wide safety margin.
(1/19/2023)
Skier triggered avalanche with two people caught and carried near Monument Peak, South Lake Tahoe, CA
Photo: Public