Persistent Slabs
- Alpine
- Treeline
- Below treeline
- Likelihood
- Unlikely
- Size
- 2
Above 7,500 feet, persistent slabs lie upon weak, faceted snow and sun crusts formed during the January dry period. There is a high degree of spatial variability associated with these weak layers, which makes it difficult to predict how a slope will react to the presence of skiers or riders. Evaluate the snow and terrain carefully, and identify features of concern. These slabs could be triggered by backcountry travelers in steep, avalanche prone terrain with depths up to three feet.