Storm Slabs
- Alpine
- Treeline
- Below treeline
- Likelihood
- Likely
- Size
- 1–2
The easiest way to avoid avalanches altogether is to stick to slopes under 35 degrees. If venturing near avalanche terrain, be prepared to choose terrain carefully and asses how easily the snow slides before committing to larger slopes. Avoid the most dangerous areas by staying off of wind-loaded leeward sides of ridges and wind-exposed terrain features.
You may be able to trigger avalanches at the recently buried interface of new and old snow on many steep slopes. These avalanches will range in size and reactivity depending on where you travel. The most dangerous avalanches will be at upper elevations, where they could be large due to the wind drifting stiff slabs of snow on leeward slopes. Near and west of Washington Pass, you may find reactive storm slab avalanches 1-2 feet deep, even in wind-sheltered terrain. Further east and at lower elevations, triggering slides may still be easy, but they may be smaller, looser, and less cohesive. Watch for clues of the danger like natural avalanches, test slopes where the new snow slides easily, and blowing snow (see photo below).
(12/1/2023)
A small storm slab avalanche in an adjacent zone, 6-8" deep. On Friday, the new/old interface was very reactive. Rock Mtn
Photo: Matt Primomo