Northern San Juan

A large winter storm begins to impact the Southern Mountains on Monday lasting through Wednesday. Expect the avalanche danger to rise quickly as heavy snow and strong winds build dangerous slabs of snow, and overwhelm weak snow layers.

If you find the shallow area of the slope, you could trigger a large avalanche – especially on slopes steeper than about 35 degrees. Common trigger spots exists near rock outcroppings, on steep rollovers, and beneath ridges and cliffs. Avalanches on previously drifted slopes can break wider and deeper producing a more dangerous slide. Proceed with caution if you notice the snow surface transition from soft to stiff, or where you see smooth, rounded pillows of snow. You can find safer riding options on lower-angled, wind-sheltered slopes without steep overhead hazards.