In some instances, weakadhesion between strong layers can yield slippage at the interface between those layers, while in other conditions, a strong layer or layers above the weakness may hold the snowpack in place. The answers incorporate other key observations. A weak layer signals the need to carefully consider the strength and quantity of snow above it, in addition to the ambient temperature, the wind factor, the amount of new load on the snowpack, how long it s been since the most recent load period took place, and, most importantly, the avalanche activity that accompanied or closely followed the most recent new load event. If avalanches associated with a recent storm or wind loading event took out layers on any nearby slopes down to the weak layer you found in your pit, consider that a clear warning signal and the more recent the occurrences, the stronger the warning. However, if a goodly number of days have passed since the most recent load period, and if temperatures on and within the pack have allowed for significant gain of strength in the snow above the weak layer, your slope may be perfectly safe for skiing.
Questions often remain in the mind of the digger after the pit is complete.
Translation of your observations and evaluation of information is not simple and easy. Frequently an additional test or two will help solidify your thoughts. A shovel shear test along with a Rutschblok test, perhaps followed by some judicious test skiing, will often resolve lingering doubts. It s important to remember that snowpack observations from the pit, the shear, the Rutschblok, and the ski tests each provide partial information about existing avalanche conditions. You have to integrate the data in order to make a reasonable evaluation of current hazards.