Glossary

Storm Slab

Credit
Curtis Pawliuk

A storm slab avalanche.

A storm slab is one or more layers of recent storm snow that has consolidated into a slab above a weak layer. Storm slab distribution is generally much wider than that of wind slabs due to the slab forming as a result of snowfall rather than wind effect. It is one of eight avalanche problems identified in avalanche forecasts.

Management of storm slab problems involves paying close attention to slope angle and slope size, as the widespread nature of the problem means that it tends to affect most slopes where avalanches can occur. 

Storm slabs form a strong bond with the previous snow surface over a relatively short time period. If they remain unstable for more than a few days, they may be re-labeled as persistent slabs.