Wind Slabs
- Alta montaña
- Límite del bosque
- Bajo el límite del bosque
- Probabilidad
- Possible
- Tamaño
- 1
What and where is it:Up to 3 inches of new snow and westerly winds could build small wind slabs on steep east-facing and south-facing slopes above 3000 feet. New wind slabs could be triggered by your weight and become increasingly large and sensitive as the day goes on. How can you recognize it: Watch for areas of new snow and deeper snow drifts sitting on top of the hard old snow surface. Blowing snow at the ridgelines and drifts deeper than your ankle are signs of a developing wind slab. Use your hand, a ski pole, or a shovel to assess slab depth and the ability of the new snow to stick to the hard old snow.
How can you manage it:Question if you are getting lured onto a slope that looks soft but is hiding a slick, hard old snow surface just below the new snow. While triggering an avalanche today may not be enough to bury you, it could cause a deadly and uncontrollable fall. Pay attention to the actions of other people, especially if they are above you where new wind slabs could be larger and more sensitive.