"Avalanche Problem" is a term used by avalanche centers in the US and Canada to describe the avalanche hazard by describing in four elements:

• Avalanche Character or Problem Type: There are many different kinds of avalanches and each has its own characteristics. Avalanche centers typically use nine types to describe avalanche character: Wet Loose, Dry Loose, Storm Slab, Wind Slab, Persistent Slab, Deep Persistent Slab, Wet Slab, Glide, and Cornice Fall.

• Location: The aspect-elevation rose is a powerful way to understand the general avalanche pattern in a glance by aspect (the direction a slope faces) and elevation. These grey-and-white roses are called "locator roses" meaning that they show you the general aspect and elevation where you will MOST LIKELY find the avalanche problem, not all the places where you might find it. The grey areas indicate where this avalanche problem likely exists and the white areas indicate where it likely is absent.

• Likelihood of Triggering: This means the probability that a single person will trigger that type of avalanche in the terrain specified. Essentially, what is the chance of an avalanche encounter?

• Size: This means the size of the avalanche. Small avalanches are D1 in size or not quite large enough to bury a person unless other factors like terrain traps contribute to magnify the consequences of the avalanche. Large avalanches are D2 avalanches meaning that they can bury or injury people. Very large avalanches are D3 avalanches that can bury and destroy a car, damage a truck, destroy a small building or break a few trees. Historic avalanches are D4 and D5 avalanches that can destroy a railway car, large truck, several buildings, a small village, or a forest area up to 40 hectares.