Wind Slabs
- Hochgebirge
- Waldgrenze
- Unterhalb der Waldgrenze
- Wahrscheinlichkeit
- Possible
- Größe
- 1–2
On Saturday I observed one skier trigger wind slab on a NE aspect (size D1) near treeline at Tam Rim. Winds were strong and sustained from the west and wind loading was observed throughout the day at higher elevations on Saturday. I suspect wind slabs will continue to grow Saturday night and into Sunday.
This Sunday be on the look out for wind slabs. Look for red flags such as shooting cracks while traveling, and consider easing into terrain by starting on less consequential and lower angle slopes. Look for small/safe test slopes to stomp on to assess for slab release and/or cracking. If wind slabs are encountered, limit your exposure to avalanche terrain by seeking lower angle slopes (terrain lower than 30 degrees) and/or move to areas without wind slabs. Wind slabs are most reactive during or immediatly after a storm. It is best to give wind slabs a day or two to adjust and become less reactive. Remeber that wind can accumulate new snow 3-5x more in depth.