Wind Slabs
- Alta montaña
- Límite del bosque
- Bajo el límite del bosque
- Probabilidad
- Very Likely
- Tamaño
- 2–3
What and where is it:Large, destructive slabs of wind-drifted snow are likely to naturally avalanche today across steep terrain in eastern ravines. Slab depth is likely to be several feet thick. Naturally occurring avalanches will be most likely to occur this morning, but even as the winds decrease in the afternoon, the likelihood of a person triggering a large wind slab avalanche remains very high.
How can you recognize it: Plumes of blowing snow from strong westerly winds are all the evidence you need today to tell you that conditions are very dangerous. Below 3000 feet in elevation, look for stiffer, hollow-feeling slabs, recent avalanche activity, and long shooting cracks as clear signs of instability.How can you manage it: Travel in south, east, and north-facing avalanche terrain above 3000 feet in elevation is NOT recommended. Avoid this terrain to mitigate the chance of being buried in a large or very large avalanche. Avalanches could run far into flat runout zones that are often thought to be safe. Give avalanche terrain a wide margin today.