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Learn about Specific Terrain Features and complete our quizz to be short-listed!
Did you know ?
Specific terrain features (STFs) are terrain characteristics that increase or reduce the risk of avalanche.
- Favourable terrain is less prone to avalanches, has less risk and/or consequence from avalanches.
- Unfavourable terrain is more prone to avalanche triggering and/or can aggravate their consequences.
Islands of safety
Areas behind rocks of varying size.
Can also be high ground or an elevated area in the middle of a large slope.
Allows you to regroup in an area of less exposure.
Can provide shelter from dangers such as sluffs or avalanches.
Don’t forget that these zones may only shelter you from danger temporarily
Leeward Slopes
– Part of a slope that is located behind an obstacle, ridge or rock.
– Area where wind-transported snow is deposited.
– Downwind side of a ridge where transported snow can form a cornice.
Trigger Risks
– Additional load on snowpack.
– Poor bonding between wind-deposited snow and snowpack.
– Increased risk of wind slab formation.
– Cornice falls.
