Multiple Snow Layers
There are three main causes that contribute to avalanche conditions. On the
surface of a mountain is the snowpack. This is the snow that has fallen and
accumulated over the past weeks and months. Usually, there are several layers of
snow on the mountain. The first layer of snow is called the “bed layer.” Some of
this snow will melt away, leaving a second thin layer of ice particles on top of the
bed layer. It might take several weeks before another heavy snowfall. The danger
comes when the third layer of snow falls. If it is made of light, loose or fluffy
snow (not heavy wet snow), the danger starts. This third layer is called the “weak
or slab layer.” A weak layer of snow lying on top of ice and bed layers means that
an avalanche is more likely to occur.