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 be very dangerous due to its weight and speed. These avalanches typically happen on steep slopes, usually between 30 and 45 degrees. The sliding slab can travel quickly, reaching speeds of up to 80 miles per hour. Understanding the conditions that lead to slab avalanches is crucial for safety in mountainous areas, especially for outdoor enthusiasts and professionals in the avalanche safety field.