Avalanche Problem Types
Not all avalanches are the same! Avalanche forecasts describe different avalanche problems—each with unique characteristics, causes and challenges. There are 9 avalanche problem types used in NZ’s avalanche forecasting, which are also used around the world.
You'll learn how each avalanche type is formed, signs to look for, and the travel considerations when each problem exists.
Understanding these problems is key to recognising hazards, interpreting conditions and making safe route selection based on the NZAA forecast.
Episodes
- Storm Slab
- Wind Slab
- Wet Slab
- Persistent Slab
- Deep Slab
- Loose Wet
- Loose Dry
- Glide Slab
- Cornice/Ice Fall
Storm Slab
The NZAA uses 9 avalanche problem types. In this episode, we look at storm slabs, including what this avalanche problem is, how it forms and some travel considerations when it appears in the forecast or in the field.
Wind Slab
The NZAA uses 9 avalanche problem types. In this episode, we look at wind slabs, including what this avalanche problem is, how it forms and some travel considerations when it appears in the forecast or in the field.
Wet Slab
The NZAA uses 9 avalanche problem types. In this episode, we look at wet slabs, including what this avalanche problem is, how it forms and some travel considerations when it appears in the forecast or in the field.
Persistent Slab
The NZAA uses 9 avalanche problem types. In this episode, we look at persistent slabs, including what this avalanche problem is, how it forms and some travel considerations when it appears in the forecast or in the field.
Deep Slab
The NZAA uses 9 avalanche problem types. In this episode, we look at deep slabs, including what this avalanche problem is, how it forms and some travel considerations when it appears in the forecast or in the field.
Loose Wet
The NZAA uses 9 avalanche problem types. In this episode, we look at loose wet avalanches, including what this avalanche problem is, how it forms and some travel considerations when it appears in the forecast or in the field.
Loose Dry
The NZAA uses 9 avalanche problem types. In this episode, we look at loose dry avalanches, including what this avalanche problem is, how it forms and some travel considerations when it appears in the forecast or in the field.
Glide Slab
The NZAA uses 9 avalanche problem types. In this episode, we look at glide slabs, including what this avalanche problem is, how it forms and some travel considerations when it appears in the forecast or in the field.
Cornice/Ice Fall
The NZAA uses 9 avalanche problem types. In this episode, we look at cornice fall, including what this avalanche problem is, how it forms and some travel considerations when it appears in the forecast or in the field.
Further Resources
- View your local avalanche forecast here
- Complete our Online Avalanche Course
- Get the hands-on training necessary to be safe in avalanche terrain from one of our trusted course providers
- Read our ‘User’s guide to understanding the NZ Avalanche Advisory’
More in the Series
- Glossary Terms | New to avalanche safety? Start with this glossary to learn the key terms to help you understand the forecast and learn about avalanche terrain.
- Understanding the NZAA | This guide breaks down the NZAA forecast so you can interpret avalanche information and make informed decisions on your adventures.
- Practical Tips and travel techniques | Take your Avalanche IQ from the forecast to the field with practical tips, travel techniques, and key skills to manage avalanche risk in real time.