Bulletin d’avalanche

You can trigger an avalanche on north and east-facing slopes where a cohesive slab of surface snow sits above weaker layers near the ground. The most dangerous slopes are at upper elevations, where wind-deposited snow forms a stiff surface layer. Look for and avoid slopes beneath cornices, areas with smooth lens-like pillows, or places where the snow sounds hollow or drum-like. Move to less-steep or more wind-sheltered slopes if you see cracking in the snow or hear collapses. Slopes less than about thirty degrees without steep terrain above provide safer options.