Persistent Slabs
- Alta quota
- Limite del bosco
- Sotto il limite del bosco
- Probabilità
- Possible
- Dimensione
- 1–2
Poor snowpack structure exists fairly widespread on Togwotee where weak facets are buried beneath a cohesive slab making avalanches possible. If triggered, hard slab depths will be 1-3 feet with higher volumes found in upper elevations above 10,000’ in wind loaded terrain. Due to strong wind events, the snowpack depth varies significantly across different aspects above 9000’. Therefore, previous tracks are not a good indication of slope stability. All it takes is hitting that one sensitive spot to trigger the entire slope. Be suspicious of any terrain where the consequences of triggering an avalanche are high such as steep slopes above terrain traps. Do not let the stubborn character of these avalanches deter your judgment. Practice safe terrain choice.
(12/7/2023)
This persistent slab avalanche that occured on Barbers Point is a great example of steep terrain to avoid above trees and hazards where consequences are high.