Dry Snow Slide A dry snow slide, also known as a loose snow avalanche, is a type of avalanche characterized by the movement of dry, powdery snow with minimal cohesion. Unlike wet snow avalanches, which involve heavier, water-saturated snow, dry snow slides occur in cold conditions where the snow remains light and unconsolidated. These avalanches are particularly dangerous due to their high speed and potential to entrain large volumes of snow, creating a destructive force capable of burying or injuring anyone in their path. Dry snow avalanches typically initiate on steep slopes (30–45 degrees) where a weak layer within the snowpack collapses, triggering the release of overlying snow. The lack of bonding between snow grains allows the slide to propagate rapidly, often reaching speeds exceeding 100 km/h (60 mph). As the avalanche descends, it generates a turbulent cloud of fine snow particles, known as a powder cloud, which can extend far beyond the main body of the slide. This airborne snow increases the avalanche’s destructive potential by suffocating victims and reducing visibility. Several factors contribute to dry snow avalanches, including recent heavy snowfall, strong winds redistributing snow, and temperature fluctuations that weaken layers within the snowpack. Human activity, such as skiing or snowmobiling, can also trigger these slides by adding stress to unstable slopes. Mitigating the risks of dry snow avalanches requires careful terrain assessment, proper safety equipment (e.g., avalanche transceivers, probes, and shovels), and knowledge of snowpack stability. Backcountry travelers should avoid steep, wind-loaded slopes and monitor avalanche forecasts. In summary, dry snow slides are fast-moving, highly destructive avalanches that pose significant hazards in mountainous regions. Understanding their formation and behavior is essential for minimizing risks in snow-covered environments.