Sluffs

Sluffs, also known as snow sluffs, are a type of snow avalanche that occurs on gentle slopes or flat terrain. Unlike typical avalanches, which involve the rapid descent of a cohesive mass of snow, sluffs are characterized by the slow, continuous movement of snow down a slope. This movement is often triggered by factors such as wind, temperature changes, or the weight of a person or object on the snow surface.

Sluffs typically occur in areas with a shallow snowpack, such as open fields, meadows, or the edges of forests. They can be initiated by a variety of mechanisms, including the melting of the snow surface, the deposition of new snow, or the action of wind. Once started, sluffs can grow in size as they incorporate more snow from the slope, leading to a larger and more dangerous event.

Sluffs pose a significant hazard to backcountry skiers and snowboarders, as they can catch riders off guard and lead to injuries or fatalities. It is important for those venturing into avalanche terrain to be aware of the conditions that can lead to sluffs and to take appropriate precautions, such as avoiding travel on steep slopes with a shallow snowpack or carrying appropriate safety equipment.