Persistent Slabs
N
NE
E
SE
S
SW
W
NW
- Alpine
- Treeline
- Below treeline
- Likelihood
- Possible
- Size
- 1–1.5
Strong winds and recent snowfall will make triggering avalanches near and above treeline easier. The most dangerous slopes are steeper than about 35 degrees where winds are drifting snow into a cohesive slab on top of a weak snow surface. Slopes that face west through north to east are the most likely areas to find these conditions.
If you see signs of instability, such as cracking or collapsing, move to lower-angle slopes for safer travel conditions.