The presence of certain factors may determine the risk of a serious avalanche.
Parameter:
(1) slope
(2) anchors
(3) risk features
(4) location of the slope relative to wind
Parameter |
Safe |
Caution |
Dangerous |
slope |
<= 25 or >= 55 degrees |
26-29 or 51-54 degrees |
30 – 50 degrees |
anchors |
many and thick |
some |
none or few |
risk features |
none |
low to moderate |
high risk |
location |
windward |
|
leeward or cross-loaded |
where:
• A cross-loaded slope is one with the wind blowing across it.
Specialty: Emergency Medicine, Critical Care