A slab avalanche occurs when a cohesive layer of snow, known as a slab, breaks away from the underlying snowpack and slides down a slope. This type of avalanche is often triggered by factors such as heavy snowfall, warming temperatures, or human activity, like skiing or snowboarding. The slab can vary in thickness and can travel at high speeds, making it particularly dangerous. These avalanches typically happen on steep slopes, usually between 30 and 45 degrees. The stability of the snowpack is crucial; weak layers beneath the slab can lead to its failure. Understanding the conditions that lead to slab avalanches is essential for safety in mountainous areas, especially for outdoor enthusiasts and professionals in avalanche safety and mountain rescue.