Wind Slabs
- Alta quota
- Limite del bosco
- Sotto il limite del bosco
- Probabilità
- Possible
- Dimensione
- 1–1.5
Wind slabs found at middle and upper elevations are likely to be stubborn after consistent, extreme northwest winds of 90-100 mph. Snow surfaces in most locations are expected to be firm and supportive, greatly lessening the impact on a buried weak layer of loose, granular faceted crystals near an older ice crust. Triggering an avalanche on that weak layer is unlikely, but not impossible.
In lower-angle southeast-facing avalanche terrain and in wind-sheltered areas (under larger cliffs or around trees), softer and more reactive wind slabs may have had the opportunity to form. Look for smooth, pillow-like snow versus the textured, firm snow surface. Travel thoughtfully around these areas and make slope-specific assessments when softer snow is found. This observation shows a recent small natural avalanche in a wind-sheltered area protecting softer wind slabs.