Persistent Slabs
N
NE
E
SE
S
SW
W
NW
- Alpine
- Treeline
- Below treeline
- Likelihood
- Possible
- Size
- 2–3
You can trigger a large and dangerous avalanche that breaks in deeply buried weak snow. The most dangerous slopes face northerly and easterly directions at upper elevations near ridgelines.
Watch for wet snow avalanches on sunny slopes in the afternoon, particularly below about 11,000 feet. While these avalanches may not grow large enough to bury you they can easily knock you over and drag you down the slope. Avoid traveling on steep northerly and easterly-facing slopes at higher elevations and avoid steep, sunny slopes in the afternoon to reduce your chances of being caught in an avalanche.