Wind Slabs
- Alta montaña
- Límite del bosque
- Bajo el límite del bosque
- Probabilidad
- Likely
- Tamaño
- 1–3
Recent snowfall is available for transport. Today, winds will blow from the west and northwest near and above treeline. Watch for blowing snow and newly forming drifts on leeward aspects. With that in mind, existing drifts on NW, N, NE, and E aspects remain most consequential. These slabs range from shallow to deep, dependent on elevation and terrain. If triggered, results would be destructive enough to bury a person or cause damage to timber. Reduce your risk by avoiding leeward slopes steeper than 30 degrees near and above treeline with actively loading snow, large cornices, or previous signs of wind effect. Use snowpack assessment to identify areas of concern, and conservative terrain management to limit exposure. Features that encourage drifting include ridgelines, rock outcroppings, and steep convex terrain.