Sawatch

You can trigger a dangerous avalanche on northwest through north to east-facing slopes. The most dangerous slopes face these directions at upper elevations, near and above treeline. You can dramatically decrease your chances of being caught in a dangerous avalanche by avoiding travel on or under large, steep slopes that face these directions. You can find safer travel options on south-facing slopes, but watch out for small, loose avalanches in the wet snow later in the day.

On March 7th, a backcountry skier was caught and killed in an avalanche near Vail Pass. The avalanche released on a northeast-facing slope near treeline, about 2 to 3 feet deep. Our deepest condolences to the deceased skier's family, friends, and community. You can read the preliminary accident report here.