Avalanches are large amounts of snow that forcefully slide down the side of a ......... .

Avalanches often catch people by surprise and they might end up......... under a huge pile of snow if they happen to get caught in one.

Sometimes, scientists are able to......... an avalanche before it happens. This is good news for many outdoor enthusiasts.

However, people are often ......... that one is about to take place because mountain weather can change so quickly.

Skiers and snowboarders have to be extremely......... and careful about taking part in recreational activities in backcountry areas.

Avalanches are sometimes ......... by loud sounds.

As well, many other......... cause avalanches.

For example, wind......... and slope angles are just two of the factors that must be taken in account when considering avalanches.

Experts say that if you find yourself buried under an avalanche, dig the snow away from your head in order to make ......... area for yourself.

Some people who frequent dangerous, backcountry areas often carry signal devices with them so their companions can......... them down if they do encounter an avalanche.