Grand Mesa

A potent winter storm is impacting the area Friday. As new snow accumulates the avalanche danger will increase rapidly with up to 10 inches possible by evening. Strong winds are drifting snow onto northerly and easterly aspects. You can trigger an avalanche where you find more than around 10 inches of drifted snow resting over old weak snow. Avalanches may break deeper and wider than you anticipate. Getting caught in even a small avalanche at this time of year could end badly if it carries you into rocks or other shallowly buried hazards.

Safer travel options include low-angle slopes and wind-sheltered terrain.