Southern San Juan

It is getting harder to trigger a large or dangerous avalanche with each passing day. Strong winds recently wreaked havoc to most alpine slopes leaving hard, stubborn slabs on the surface. Near treeline, you’re chance to trigger an avalanche increases where less wind-scouring has left thick slabs of snow resting above weaker snow. An avalanche that breaks on slopes facing west through north to east may break in weak layers several feet deep, and will be larger.

If you see cracking or collapsing on previously wind-drifted slopes with a smooth, lens-shaped appearance, choose a different slope. If you find weak, cohesionless snow on continuously steep slopes below treeline, stick to higher terrain features to avoid getting swept up by a loose avalanche.