surface hoar crystals

Surface hoar crystals, which, when buried by subsequent snowfall are renowned for forming a weak layer in the snowpack.

Quiz answers

  1. A transceiver, shovel and probe.
  2. The humans themselves. 95% of all serious avalanche accidents are actually triggered by the people involved.
  3. Yell, try to outrun / ski it, ski off to the side, swimming action to stay on the surface, remove skis, poles and backpack.
  4. One at a time, from safe spot to safe spot.
  5. No, it is likely it is safe if you cross on the same track but no guarantee. The snowpack is constantly changing . Weather conditions which may not have an obvious visible impact on the snow such as solar radiation, humidity, prolonged low temperature . . . can destabilise the snowpack such that you become the trigger that sets off an avalanche.
  6. All seasons of the year if you are venturing into avalanche terrain where there may be snow instability.
  7. Ascertain that there is no further danger of avalanches before venturing onto the slope.
  8. 15 minutes
  9. Terrain, snow stability and weather.
  10. Weather forecast, local information, avalanche hazard rating, the experience of the group.