Persistent Slabs
N
NE
E
SE
S
SW
W
NW
- Alpine
- Treeline
- Below treeline
- Likelihood
- Possible
- Size
- 1–1.5
You could trigger avalanches on steeper slopes where you find wind-drifted snow layered over weaker, softer snow. Avalanches could become broader than you expect if they break into more deeply drifted snow. You can find drifted spots below ridgelines, along the gully sides, or downhill of steep rollovers. Look for lens-shaped pillows of snow and feel for stiff layers under your feet. Even a small avalanche can knock you over and become dangerous if you get pushed into rocks, over trees, or stuffed in a gully. You can find safer travel on slopes without wind-drifted snow or those less than about 30 degrees in steepness.