Steamboat & Flat Tops

A few more inches of snow with light winds on Wednesday night won't increase the danger - yet. The danger will increase quickly when wind speeds pick up and heavy snow begins late on Thursday. If you notice more than about eight inches of new snow forming cohesive slabs avoid slopes steeper than about 30 degrees.

Until the storm begins to intensify, you likely won't see signs of instability like cracking and audible collapses. Drifted slopes that face north through east to southeast below ridgelines are the most dangerous areas. You can recognize drifted slopes by their smooth, pillow-like appearance. Avoid these areas and seek out wind-sheltered slopes as a safer option.