Persistent Slabs
- Alpine
- Treeline
- Below treeline
- Likelihood
- Possible
- Size
- 1–2
Persistent weak layers of faceted snow exist throughout the backcountry. Above 7500 feet these weaknesses could fail, causing large soft to hard slabs with depths of two to four feet. At lower elevations the snowpack structure is poor and unsupportive. If triggered in this lower terrain, slabs will be smaller, soft and likely will involve faceted snow to the ground. Cautious route finding and conservative decision making is essential for safe backcountry travel.