Gunnison

An Avalanche Watch is in effect. Dangerous avalanche conditions will begin Monday night and last through Tuesday.

You can trigger a small avalanche on easterly slopes above the treeline where wind-drifted snow rests on top of weak snow. Increasing winds throughout the day Monday will make these areas more dangerous as the day progresses. Identify and avoid wind-loaded terrain features such as the lee side of a ridgeline or inside of a gully or couloir.

On steep wind-sheltered northerly slopes, you may be able to trigger a small, loose avalanche that could grow large enough to knock you over. These avalanches are only a concern if there are terrain traps such as a river, dense trees, or a cliff below you. For safer travel options avoid steep, shady slopes with terrain traps at the bottom and wind-loaded terrain features above the treeline.