Wind Slabs
- Alta montaña
- Límite del bosque
- Bajo el límite del bosque
- Probabilidad
- Likely
- Tamaño
- 1–2
Extreme winds will easily transport low density snow that's fallen over the last week or so. Winds will likely be strong enough to cause chaotic loading patterns or build wind slabs further below ridgelines than usual.
This is not a day to dance around avalanche terrain, avoid all slopes 35 degrees and steeper where you find firm wind pressed snow. Shooting cracks and hollow snow are signs you can trigger a wind slab avalanche in similar terrain. The new snow will likely bond poorly to underlying weak snow surfaces and avalanches may break wider than expected or be triggered on approach from below. Make sure you don't wander too far along ridgelines, cornices may develop quickly and can break further back than you expect.
Shallow storm slabs may become an issue later in the day and Sunday night as the snow piles up in wind sheltered areas. Avoid steep rollovers and unsupported slopes where you can trigger a storm slab avalanche.
As the storm intensifies Sunday evening and night, natural avalanches will become more likely with larger and more consequential slides possible. If you venture out into the backcountry on Sunday, make sure you have a safe exit plan that minimizes exposure to avalanche terrain.
Will the Ridge look like this Sunday? If there's poor visibilty, make sure you know you're headed and stay clear of cornices.