Northern San Juan

Dangerous avalanche conditions exist on wind-loaded slopes. Southwest winds have drifted the new snow into thicker slabs on northerly and easterly-facing slopes. Avalanches in the new snow could break into weaker snow layers several feet deep on slopes facing west through north to east. Avoid areas beneath ridgelines, cornices, and gullies where you see evidence of drifting such as rounded snow pillows or a hard, sculpted snow surface. Strong, gusty winds may form dangerous drifts lower in the terrain than usual, and in wide open areas below the treeline. If you experience cracking or collapsing in the new snow, consider heading to slopes less than about 30 degrees that are sheltered from the wind.