Abajos

A MODERATE danger exists for human triggered avalanches involving wind drifted snow, and deeper avalanches breaking down to buried persistent weak layers. You are most likely to encounter these problems on steep slopes that face the north half of the compass. Avoid steep slopes that have a smooth, rounded appearance indicating wind drifted snow. Also avoid very steep, rocky, or sparsely treed northerly facing terrain where buried persistent weak layers of loose, sugary, faceted snow still exist.

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The Abajos picked up 2"-4" of new snow with up to 6" up high. Westerly winds yesterday evening blew in the 20-30 mph range with gusts in the 40's, but they backed off around 10:00 p.m. and are currently blowing in the 5-15 mph range. We may see a few scattered showers today with 1"-2" possible. WSW winds will increase to 15-20 mph with gusts to 30. High temps will be in the upper 20's. We should see another shot of snow tonight with 3"-5" possible.

Today you may find some new sensitive, shallow wind drifts on lee sides of northerly facing ridge crests at upper elevations. Older, hard wind slabs may also still be sensitive to the weight of a rider.

Snotel totals at Buckboard Flat (8924')

Snotel totals at Camp Jackson (8858')

Wind, temperature, and humidity on Abajo Peak (11,000')

National Weather Service point forecast.

Carry appropriate rescue gear: beacon, probe, shovel, and choose where you ride based on the avalanche forecast for the day!

Your information can save lives. If you see anything we should know about, please help us out by submitting snow and avalanche observations HERE. You can also call me at 801-647-8896, or send me an email: [email protected].

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This advisory is from the U.S.D.A. Forest Service, which is solely responsible for its content. This advisory describes general avalanche conditions and local variations always occur.