Persistent Slabs
N
NE
E
SE
S
SW
W
NW
- Alpine
- Treeline
- Below treeline
- Likelihood
- Likely
- Size
- 2–3
You can easily trigger a very large avalanche that breaks near the ground. Slopes that face west through north to southeast are the most dangerous. You can trigger an avalanche from the bottom of a slope or a great distance away. Some avalanches might release naturally if the wind speeds pick up. Avalanches could break wider and run farther than you anticipate. Choose your route cautiously, and place lots of room between you and any suspect terrain. Slopes less than about 30 degrees that are far from large, steep slopes offer safer options.