Avalanche 101

An avalanche can also be called a snow slide. Fast moving snow train might be a more accurate term and rightly so considering the speed it moves.  Snow slides at a fast moving pace down a mountain that is usually around 25 to 50 degrees. Did I mention these are the prime degrees for skiing, snowboarding and snowmobiling?

Dry slabs are the most dangerous avalanche conditions. This avalanche results from a fragile layer of snow too weak to hold the next layers of snow deposited on it. The top snow then slides off and down onto whatever is in its way. When you realize it is coming down, at 130 kilometers on average, it is too fast to out run and out ski. By the way, if one has come down, it is likely another will follow.

The months of January through March seem to be prime avalanche periods. With the mild weather most states and provinces have been getting this winter, topped by snow then milder temperatures, the formation of avalanche conditions heightens. Since most of us are not avalanche experts because we don’t make it our focus at university or college, it is wise to follow the signs and warnings that are amply put out there for your benefit.

Wind is one of those conditions that can basically determine the likelihood of too much snow on your favorite mountain. Wind can deposit snow ten times faster than a snow fall. Major storms followed by thaw, and activity on the slopes – i.e. snowmobiling, can start the wicked momentum.

I am including a chart by the Canadian Avalanche Centre that gives a clear description of each warning level.