Wind Slabs
- Alta montaña
- Límite del bosque
- Bajo el límite del bosque
- Probabilidad
- Unlikely
- Tamaño
- 1–1.5
Recent observations suggest the highest storm totals from last weekend's storm are concentrated in the Mammoth area and along the Sierra crest. It follows that the size and distribution of reactive wind slabs will be greater in areas with higher snow totals. Continued slab development is not likely today; however, it remains possible to find fresh winds slabs sensitive to human triggers in isolated areas near and above treeline. Keep in mind that old snow surfaces comprised of near-surface facets and hard slick crusts will keep wind slabs sensitive to human triggers for longer than we may typically expect. Leeward terrain features and catchment zones on southerly aspects will be areas of primary concern. Be particularly cautious in extreme & complex terrain where even a small avalanche could cause a bad fall. Large drifts, recent cornice growth, stiff hollow feeling snow, and uneven snow surfaces are all clues that indicate nearby wind deposits. Do your own localized assessments and be suspect of terrain features that encourage drifting such as the leeward sides of ridgelines, alpine couloirs, gully features, and cross-loaded depressions.