Persistent Slabs
N
NE
E
SE
S
SW
W
NW
- Alpine
- Treeline
- Below treeline
- Likelihood
- Likely
- Size
- 2–3
You can trigger an avalanche that breaks up to three feet deep where cohesive slabs rest over very weak snow. The most dangerous slopes harbor wind-drifted at higher elevations. You can identify these features by their smooth rounded and bulbous appearance.
You can trigger avalanches from a distance or below, even from flat terrain. So be aware of steeper overhead terrain and give these slopes a wide buffer.
You can find safer travel options on wind-sheltered south and southwest slopes at lower elevations and by sticking to slopes less than about 30 degrees without similarly steep slopes above you.