An avalanche is a rapid flow of snow down a slope, triggered by natural factors like heavy precipitation, earthquakes, or melting, as well as by human activities such as skiing or snowmobiling. They primarily occur in two forms: slab avalanches, which happen when a stiff layer of snow collapses over a weak underlying layer, and loose snow avalanches, which can accelerate and mix with air to form dangerous powder snow avalanches. The formation depends on the snowpack's load exceeding its strength, a complex process influenced by temperature, humidity, and terrain that can cause fractures to propagate almost simultaneously across vast areas. These events are among the most serious natural hazards in mountainous regions, most frequent in winter and spring, leading to significant efforts in avalanche control and forecasting. Contrary to popular belief, avalanches are not triggered by loud sounds, as the pressure from noise is far too small to cause a collapse.