Persistent Slabs
N
NE
E
SE
S
SW
W
NW
- Alpine
- Treeline
- Below treeline
- Likelihood
- Possible
- Size
- 1–2
You can trigger an avalanche where you find cohesive slabs of snow around a foot thick resting on weak, cohesionless snow underneath. The most dangerous slopes face north through east near treeline. If you see obvious red flags such as avalanches on similar slopes or cracking and collapsing in the snow as you travel, consider avoiding travel on or directly under steep terrain. Safer travel options exist in wind-sheltered areas below treeline or on wind-scoured slopes facing more southwest directions above treeline.
Pay attention to the amount of new snow that has fallen. If you encounter more than around 10 inches of new snow later in the day on Friday, then expect conditions to be more dangerous.