Persistent Slabs
N
NE
E
SE
S
SW
W
NW
- Alpine
- Treeline
- Below treeline
- Likelihood
- Likely
- Size
- 2–3
You can trigger an avalanche that breaks up to three feet deep where wind-drifted slabs rest over very weak snow. The most dangerous slopes are at higher elevations where slabs are thicker. You can identify these features by their smooth rounded and bulbous appearance.
You can trigger avalanches from a distance or below, even from flat terrain. So be aware of steeper overhead terrain and give these slopes a wide buffer.
You can find safer travel options on wind-sheltered south and southwest slopes at lower elevations and by sticking to slopes less than about 30 degrees without similarly steep slopes above you.