Which condition does not apply to initiating an avalanche?

• A. 30-45 degree slopes
• B. A well treed slope
• C. Temperature and pressure metamorphosis
• D. A triggering device

Answer: (B)

A well-treed slope is typically considered a stabilizing factor when it comes to avalanche risk. Trees can help anchor the snowpack, reducing the likelihood of an avalanche by providing additional support to the layers of snow. The presence of trees can decrease the chances of an avalanche occurring because they interrupt the continuity of the snow surface, preventing large slides from forming.

Conversely, conditions such as steep slopes (typically between 30-45 degrees) are known to be more susceptible to avalanches, as gravity plays a significant role in snow stability on such angles. Temperature and pressure metamorphosis of the snowpack can create conditions ripe for sliding, thus contributing to avalanche risk. Similarly, a triggering device, such as a skier or a snowmobile, can initiate an avalanche by applying additional stress on the snowpack that can no longer hold together.

The presence of trees, however, typically mitigates these risks, making it the condition that does not apply to initiating an avalanche.