Wind Slabs
- Alta quota
- Limite del bosco
- Sotto il limite del bosco
- Probabilità
- Likely
- Dimensione
- 1.5–2.5
Winds exceeded forecasts yesterday, leading to intense wind transport across the range. While decreasing winds today will limit the potential for continued slab development, wind slabs that formed during our most recent storm or during the day yesterday may still be reactive to skiers and riders. Wind slabs will be larger and more concerning near and above treeline; however, isolated pockets of unstable snow may be found in sheltered areas below treeline. Recent avalanche activity, shooting cracks in stiff, hollow-feeling snow, and fresh cornice growth are all clues that indicate nearby wind deposits. Be suspicious of terrain features that encourage drifting, such as the leeward sides of ridgelines, alpine couloirs, gully features, and cross-loaded depressions.
(1/5/2026)
Natural Wind slab - 1/5/26
East face, White wing
Photo: Steve Mace