Persistent Slabs
N
NE
E
SE
S
SW
W
NW
- Alpine
- Treeline
- Below treeline
- Likelihood
- Possible
- Size
- 2–3
Higher elevation slopes facing northwest, north, and northeast are harboring the most reactive snow layers and are the most likely places to trigger a massive slide. However, don't let your guard down on other aspects. Several accidents and close calls over the weekend highlight that it might feel like spring, but under the snow surface it is definitely not. Don't expect to see any signs of instability before triggering a large and destructive avalanche. You can trigger them on slope of from a distance, so be aware of steeper terrain above you. Safer travel options exist on south-facing slopes in the morning before the sun makes them warm and wet, or low-angle terrain without steep slopes overhead.