Wind Slabs
- Alta montaña
- Límite del bosque
- Bajo el límite del bosque
- Probabilidad
- Possible
- Tamaño
- 1–2
Winds slabs up to 1’ deep will be the main concern today above 2,500’. East winds are decreasing but may still be capable of moving snow into fresh wind slabs by the time you get out today. Blowing snow is a great clue that the winds are still actively loading slopes into fresh wind slabs. It is also likely that these wind slabs will be sitting over weak faceted snow that has been forming on the surface. When this happens wind slabs tend to be easier to trigger for longer and may produce larger than expected avalanches.
Wind slabs are typically found below ridge lines, on convex rolls, or in loaded gullies. Stiff snow over loose snow, and shooting cracks underneath you are clues you are traveling on a wind slab. Trying to trigger wind slabs on small inconsequential slopes is an excellent way to test the stability of the snow. Safer snow can be found on wind sheltered slopes.
2/10/2025
Crossloaded slopes and gullies on Seattle Ridge.
Photo: AAS Level 1