Wind Slabs
- Alpine
- Treeline
- Below treeline
- Likelihood
- Possible
- Size
- 1–2
A Wind Slab avalanche was observed on Sunday near treeline on a northeast facing slope. New snow and windy conditions mean that Wind Slab avalanches will continue to be possible on Monday. Wind Slabs are created when the wind blows snow onto lee (north and east in this case) slopes where it can be deeper and harder than the snow beneath. They are most common in open terrain and particularly near and above treeline where the wind can move snow more freely. However, Strong wind speeds can often load snow further downslope. Signs of wind loaded snow include: harder snow surfaces, deeper snow, and features like wind lips or smooth pillowy textures. Cracking in wind deposited snow, and pole probing that reveals weaker snow beneath are indications of a Wind Slab avalanche character. Often on these breezy days the best riding is found in the trees and sheltered glades where the new snow remains unconsolidated.