Southern San Juan

An Avalanche Watch is in effect in for areas surrounding Lizard Head Pass, the Rico Mountains, the La Plata Mountains, areas surrounding Vallectito Reservoir, Wolf Creek, Cumbres, and La Manga Passes. Strong winds and heavy snowfall will create very dangerous avalanche conditions Tuesday night through Wednesday. Travel in avalanche terrain is not recommended during this time frame.

On Tuesday, you can trigger a dangerous avalanche where southwest winds are drifting storm snow into thickened slabs above weaker layers below. Strong winds may drift snow further down slopes and into below-treeline areas than is typical. Use caution anywhere you find about eight inches or more of new or drifted snow. Slopes less than thirty degrees without steep terrain above provide safer options.

On Saturday, two backcountry skiers triggered were killed in an avalanche near Vallecito Reservoir. You can read the preliminary report here. Our deepest condolences go out to the family and friends of the people involved in this tragic accident. Search and rescue operations remain underway for a missing snowmobiler near La Manga Pass. You can read this preliminary report here.