Wind Slabs
- Hochgebirge
- Waldgrenze
- Unterhalb der Waldgrenze
- Wahrscheinlichkeit
- Likely
- Größe
- 2
Sustained winds have created sensitive areas of wind drifted snow. These drifts mainly exist on north and east facing slopes but can develop on all aspects with erratic mountain winds.
Avoid steep slopes with freshly wind-drifted snow as well as areas like sub-ridges, scoops, and other terrain features where sensitive drifts of snow can form. Many of the recent avalanches occurred under cliff bands, on steep rollovers, and just below ridgelines. Much firmer snow underfoot is a good clue you're on a wind slab as well as a hollow, drum-like feel. Watch for shooting cracks - a sure sign of instability.
Sheltered slopes less than 30 degrees will be your best bet for safe travel.