Abajos

The likelihood for triggering an avalanche is decreasing but the consequences remain the same. Unusual weather conditions create unusual avalanches. Prior to the storm cycle of Feb 16-20, the only slopes that held snow were on shady northerly aspects. This snow was very loose, weak, and faceted creating an unstable base. A slab now exists on top of this unstable structure and all it takes is finding the right trigger point, typically a shallower, rocky area, but it's all shallow. Avoiding large, steep slopes with a north or easterly aspect remains that best strategy.

NWS forecast for the Abajo Mountains.

Wind speed and direction on Abajo Peak.

Snow totals and temps at Buckboard Flat (8924')

Snow totals and temps at Camp Jackson (8858')

See all Abajo Observations here.

This forecast is from the U.S.D.A. Forest Service, which is solely responsible for its content. This forecast describes general avalanche conditions and local variations always occur.