How to Assess Slope Inclination for Avalanche Danger

The science of avalanche evaluation is like putting together a puzzle. Some of the pieces to the puzzle can be hard to find, but slope inclination is an easy one. By consistently measuring the slope inclination and choosing a route accordingly, you will greatly reduce the avalanche hazard.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Winter Outerwear
• Avalanche Beacon
• Avalanche Probe
• Avalanche Slope Inclinometer
• Backcountry Snow Shovel

1. Obtain a slope-measuring device (often called an inclinometer) from a local mountaineering store or Internet retail site. This is a relatively cheap product that will provide you with vital information about avalanche danger.
2. Find a hillside that has a rather consistent grade.
3. Place your ski pole softly in the snow to match the grade of the hillside.
4. Set the inclinometer on the pole and read the inclination. The highest level of slab avalanche hazard occurs between 35 and 40 degrees. Traveling in areas with an inclination less than 25 degrees will greatly reduce the risk of triggering a slide.

Tips & Warnings

• Practice measuring inclination as often as possible to increase your "eye for safety."
• Remember that traveling on a mild slope connected to a steep slope above could trigger a slide in unstable snow conditions.
• The risks of avalanches are extremely high in many backcountry situations across the country. The eHows on avalanche assessment are designed to increase your awareness and help you make safe decisions. However, a class on the subject or traveling with a guide is recommended for those new to the backcountry experience.
• Always err on the side of safety when choosing a route based on avalanche evaluation.