Risk Assessment and Decision Making

Articles on how to make safe decisions, manage risk, and recognize when to turn back.

a large avalanche showcasing a deep persistent slab

Avalanche Glossary: Deep Persistent Slabs

What is a Persistent Slab Avalanche? In the world of avalanche safety, a persistent slab avalanche is one of the most notorious hazards because of how long it can linger. Unlike storm or wind slabs that may stabilize quickly, persistent slabs are caused by weak layers deep within the snowpack, such as buried surface hoar […]

Avalanche Glossary: Deep Persistent Slabs Read More »

Avalanche Glossary: Cornices

What are Cornices? Cornices are massive, overhanging snow formations that develop along ridgelines and peaks, sculpted by wind into precarious, delicate structures. To an inexperienced backcountry traveler, they might appear like natural snow drifts, but they are one of the most deceptive and dangerous hazards in avalanche terrain. Cornices can collapse without warning, triggering avalanches

Avalanche Glossary: Cornices Read More »