Wind Slabs
N
NE
E
SE
S
SW
W
NW
- Alpine
- Treeline
- Below treeline
- Likelihood
- Possible
- Size
- 1–1.5
You may be able to trigger small avalanches on slopes where winds have drifted snow into stiff slabs. If you are traveling on a steep slope where the snow surface has a smooth, wave-like appearance and a hard, hollow feel, consider moving to a different slope. You can find these wind-loaded areas on the lee-side of a ridgeline or along the sides of gully features. If you see cracking or collapsing, sticking to slopes less than about 30 degrees is a safer option.