Wind Slabs
- Alta quota
- Limite del bosco
- Sotto il limite del bosco
- Probabilità
- Likely
- Dimensione
- 2
Sustained winds combined with heavy snowfall (both red flags for avalanche danger) have created sensitive areas of wind drifted snow. These drifts mainly exist on the eastern half of the compass but can develop on all aspects with erratic mountain winds.
With windy conditions on tap for today, you'll want to avoid steep slopes with freshly wind-drifted snow as well as areas like sub-ridges, scoops, and other terrain features where sensitive drifts of snow can form. Much firmer snow underfoot is a good clue you're on a wind slab as well as a hollow, drum-like feel. Watch for shooting cracks - a sure sign of instability.
Though less likely, wind drifted snow could also overload slopes with poor snow structure and produce avalanches that step down into old snow.
Sheltered slopes less than 30 degrees will be your best bet for safe travel and excellent riding conditions.