Which of the following is a sign of a potential avalanche?

Recognizing the signs of a potential avalanche is critical for safety in snowy terrain, and recent snowfall or strong winds are significant indicators of increasing avalanche risk. When there is a substantial amount of new snow or if strong winds have moved snow around, it can create unstable layers on the slopes. This instability may lead to the formation of slabs, which are layers of snow that can slide down the slope if they become dislodged. Understanding this relationship helps snowmobilers and outdoor enthusiasts make informed decisions about their activities in avalanche-prone areas, thus enhancing their safety.

In contrast, factors like sunny weather or warm temperatures may initially seem benign but can lead to different risks or affect snow conditions in other ways. Steep slopes do present natural avalanche potential but are not direct indicators unless combined with other factors like significant snowfall or strong winds.