Avalanche conditions lack a well-defined problem
For lack of clear evidence of well-defined avalanche problems, avalanche forecasts may advise the public to use “Normal Caution”. Normal Caution suggests that backcountry travelers apply standard protocols, such as carrying rescue gear, traveling one at a time through avalanche terrain, and watching for signs of instability. Small loose avalanches in extreme terrain can be expected during normal caution conditions.
![](https://avalanche.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/normal-caution-600x451.jpg)
If no avalanche problems are listed, backcountry travelers should still watch for signs of instability and expect to trigger small loose avalanches in extreme terrain, as shown. Credit: Crested Butte Avalanche Center.