Wind Slabs
- Alta montaña
- Límite del bosque
- Bajo el límite del bosque
- Probabilidad
- Possible
- Tamaño
- 1–2
The arrival of new snow paired with moderate to strong west and northwest winds will from fresh drifts on southeast, south, and southwest aspects. Drifts currently exist on north and east aspects from previous southerly winds. Today's wind shift will further load easterly aspects, making drifts more robust and sensitive. Instability will be most pronounced during or directly after periods of snowfall accompanied by wind. Gage the weather and the snowpack by observing for actively blowing snow, newly forming drifts, and red flags of avalanche danger.
In many areas, especially near and above treeline, firm surfaces will receive the new snow and host as a bed surface. The warm to cool trend of temperatures throughout the day, may allow for adequate bonding of new snow to old. This is where investigative work comes in. Test and feel whether the snow is resistant to moving on non-consequential test slopes or in hasty pits. Note wind direction and where cornices or wind lips have developed. This helps identify areas of concern, and the distribution of this problem. Seek avoidance by traveling on wind scoured surfaces or slopes less than 30 degrees.