What does the avalanche rose diagram actually show?

It shows which specific slopes are dangerous based on the direction they face (aspect) and their elevation. Different sections get shaded according to hazard level, so a north-facing slope above 900m might be considerable hazard whilst a south-facing slope at the same height is only moderate.

What slope angle do avalanches typically happen on?

Slab avalanches usually release on slopes between 30 and 45 degrees. Steeper than 45 degrees and snow tends to slough off, whilst slopes gentler than about 25 degrees rarely have enough gravitational force for slabs to form.

Does low hazard mean there's no avalanche risk?

No, avalanches are still possible at low hazard, particularly on steep terrain if you're adding weight to the slope. Low hazard means generally stable snow with avalanche release generally only by high additional loads on isolated steep slopes—it's not a free pass.

Common Hazards

Reading avalanche forecasts: what they mean for your route

The Scottish Avalanche Information Service rates hazard by altitude and aspect, not as one blanket level for a whole area. The practical skill is reading location, elevation and slope angle together so you can choose a different route before you reach suspect terrain.

19 October 20268 min read