An avalanche that falls from the roof of a man-made structure.

Credit: Gallatin National Forest Avalanche Center

Roof avalanches commonly slide on the roof’s surface, thus involving the entire existing snowpack.  Roof avalanches most commonly occur during warming periods after substantial snow has accumulated. Accidents involve unsuspecting residents, or snow removal and maintenance workers.

A roof avalanche that buried and killed a maintenance worker. Credit: Crested Butte Avalanche Center

A roof avalanche. Credit: Crested Butte Avalanche Center