Persistent Slabs
N
NE
E
SE
S
SW
W
NW
- Alpine
- Treeline
- Below treeline
- Likelihood
- Unlikely
- Size
- 1–2
You might be able to trigger a slab avalanche in wind-drifted snow at higher elevations and you can trigger a loose avalanche on very steep slopes in wet snow. If you encounter a hard, hollow, wind-drifted slope, most likely just below a ridgeline on slopes facing north through east to southeast, avoid slopes steeper than around 35 degrees.
If you find your feet, skis, or machine sinking deep into moist or wet snow, even on shady slopes, consider sticking to slopes less than about 40 degrees to avoid being caught in a loose avalanche. These can gouge into weak snow and on sustained, steep slopes they might even grow large enough to bury you.