Wind Slabs
- Alpine
- Treeline
- Below treeline
- Likelihood
- Possible
- Size
- 1–2
Several days of precipitation and strong wind have formed wind slabs near and above the treeline. Above the treeline is where you'll find the biggest and most sensitive wind slabs. The primary aspects where you might encounter this issue today are northeast, east, southeast, south, and southwest. Though in isolated areas, especially in extreme terrain, you could find a wind slab on other aspects.
Wind slabs have formed over a weak layer 30+ centimeters down from the surface that sits above a melt-freeze crust. This weak layer of decomposing fragments is drier and less dense than the wind-packed snow that rests above it. On steep terrain above 8,000 feet, the weight of a rider on this snowpack structure could trigger an avalanche.
Identify areas where wind slabs live by looking for accumulations of blowing snow, cornice formation, and wind pillows. Avoid traveling on or beneath steep slopes with these characteristics and give cornices a wide berth.
(12/29/2024)
Active snow transport from west-northwest winds at 8,500 feet
Photo: Eric Falconer