The release of an avalanche in the natural environment.

Credit: Flathead Avalanche Center

The most common cause of natural avalanches is loading due to snowfall and/or wind deposition. Excessive warming can also trigger avalanches, typically by causing meltwater to advance through the snowpack and weaken bonds. Natural triggers also include cornice falls, rock falls, earthquakes, and other avalanches.

A natural avalanche caused by snowfall. Credit: Crested Butte Avalanche Center

A natural avalanche caused by wind loading. Credit: Sawtooth Avalanche Center

Numerous natural avalanches caused by warming. Credit: Flathead Avalanche Center

A natural avalanche caused by a cornice fall. Credit: Flathead Avalanche Center