Southern San Juan

Recent skier-triggered avalanches just north of the forecast area indicate that triggering a large and dangerous slide is a very real possibility. Triggering a large slide is most likely where you find a shallow area of the snowpack. In shallower areas it is easier for you to impact weak, collapsible snow layers. Common trigger spots include rock outcroppings, steep rollovers, and below ridges and cliff bands.

You can trigger a smaller avalanche in recent wind-drifted snow on northerly and easterly-facing slopes. Small avalanches could step down to buried weak layers in the middle of the snowpack, creating a larger and more dangerous slide. Use caution on steeper slopes with evidence of wind-drifting. Recent wind-drifted slopes often feel stiff or have a rounded or wave like appearance.

Safer riding options exist below treeline or on low-angled, wind-sheltered slopes without steep overhead hazards.