snow layer
Frozen ground cover
A snow layer is a distinct horizontal stratum within a snowpack, formed by a single snowfall event or period of consistent weather conditions.
Each layer differs in density, crystal structure, and bonding from adjacent layers.
Analyzing snow layers helps avalanche forecasters identify weak points where slides may initiate: The buried snow layer from last week's storm created dangerous conditions.
- snowpackAccumulated mountain winter layers
- driftGradual movement, no direction
- blanketSoft bed covering
- crustHard outer layer
- powderFine dry particles
accumulation · base · mantle · cover · dusting · ice · frost · flurry · avalanche · slab · compaction · melt · depth · fresh · fresh powder · settled · windblown · cornice