Wind Slabs
- Alpine
- Treeline
- Below treeline
- Likelihood
- Possible
- Size
- 1–1.5
Between Saturday night and Sunday afternoon, the Cascades could get 3-4 inches of new snow. Unlike some of our recent storms, winds are forecasted to be Light at lower elevations. However, around ridge tops and higher in the terrain, wind speeds will be in the Moderate range. This is where you'll likely find fresh wind slabs.
I expect most wind slabs to be shallow on Sunday. The best way to manage this problem is to measure the depth of wind drifts in the new snow using the handle of your pole. If you find drifts deeper than your boot tops, evaluate carefully for strong over weak snowpack layering (using hand pits or a compression test).
Keep in mind, we only need 12 mph wind speeds to move snow, and Moderate wind speeds (17-25 mph) account for 80% of snow deposits on leeward terrain. Look for blowing snow and where it's being deposited. If you're uncertain, move to lower angle or wind-sheltered terrain.