Wind Slabs
- Alpine
- Treeline
- Below treeline
- Likelihood
- Possible
- Size
- 1–2
New snow and strong west/southwest winds have formed fresh wind slabs up to 1 foot deep at all elevations. These slabs will continue to grow as winds continue to transport snow today. Slabs could be sensitive to the weight of a rider in very steep terrain. While becoming less likely, older wind slabs with depths up to 2 feet could be triggered in heavily loaded areas along ridgelines and near the base of cliffs. Fresh wind slabs also have the potential to step down to buried weak layers, creating a larger, more dangerous avalanche. Pillows, fresh cornices, and stiffened surfaces are all indicators that winds have recently loaded slopes. Stay alert for signs of instability such as recent avalanches and shooting cracks near exposed ridgelines, and cross-loaded terrain features. If these signs are present, move to lower-angle slopes. Giving very steep and wind-loaded features a wide margin is the best way to manage this problem today.
(3/20/2025)
Obvious signs of wind loaded terrain below the freshly formed cornice.
Photo: Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center