Northern San Juan

New snow is forming slabs at all elevations. The wind is drifting the thickest slabs on slopes that face north to east. Avalanches triggered in the surface snow could break deeper, releasing a larger and more dangerous avalanche. Cautious route finding and identifying areas of unstable snow will be essential to stay safer in the backcountry. Look for cracks shooting across the slopes in front of you and signs of recent avalanche activity as indicators of rapidly rising danger. Slopes less than about 30 degrees without steep slopes above offer safer travel options today.