# AI tells a backcountry skier that a slope under 30 degrees is safe from avalanches on a High (Level 4) danger day, or that all south-facing slopes are safe in spring

- **ID:** `safety/avalanche-slope-angle-error`
- **Domain:** safety
- **Category:** physical_safety
- **Error Code:** `AVALANCHE-SLOPE-ANGLE-ERR`
- **Verification:** ai_generated
- **Fix Rate:** 80%

## Root Cause

Avalanche danger depends on snowpack structure, not just slope angle; slopes under 30° can slide if triggered from above, and aspect (direction) interacts with sun exposure, wind loading, and temperature cycles; High (Level 4) means widespread instability on many aspects and elevations.

## Version Compatibility

| Version | Status | Introduced | Deprecated |
|---------|--------|------------|------------|
| North American Avalanche Danger Scale 2024 | active | — | — |
| CAIC Avalanche Forecast v3.2 | active | — | — |
| Avalanche.org 2025 | active | — | — |

## Workarounds

1. **On High (Level 4) days, avoid all avalanche terrain (slopes over 30°) and terrain traps; travel only on low-angle (<20°) slopes with no overhead hazard; use 30-45-90 rule: avoid slopes 30-45°, be cautious of slopes >45° for cornice fall.** (90% success)
   ```
   On High (Level 4) days, avoid all avalanche terrain (slopes over 30°) and terrain traps; travel only on low-angle (<20°) slopes with no overhead hazard; use 30-45-90 rule: avoid slopes 30-45°, be cautious of slopes >45° for cornice fall.
   ```
2. **Perform a terrain assessment: check slope angle with inclinometer, look for recent avalanche activity, avoid convex rolls and wind-loaded features; dig a snowpit and perform stability tests (ECT, CT) before committing.** (85% success)
   ```
   Perform a terrain assessment: check slope angle with inclinometer, look for recent avalanche activity, avoid convex rolls and wind-loaded features; dig a snowpit and perform stability tests (ECT, CT) before committing.
   ```
3. **Use the 'Avaluator' or 'Slope Angle' app to map terrain; carry avalanche safety equipment (beacon, probe, shovel) and travel one at a time on suspect slopes.** (80% success)
   ```
   Use the 'Avaluator' or 'Slope Angle' app to map terrain; carry avalanche safety equipment (beacon, probe, shovel) and travel one at a time on suspect slopes.
   ```

## Dead Ends

- **** — Trigger from above (skier, cornice fall) can release slab on low-angle terrain below; terrain traps increase risk. (70% fail)
- **** — Solar warming melts snowpack, creating wet slabs that can release; south aspects are most prone to wet avalanches in spring. (65% fail)
- **** — Micro-terrain features (ridgelines, gullies) can create localized instability even in areas rated 'Moderate'. (75% fail)