Sawatch

A Special Avalanche Advisory is in effect. Strong winds drifted new snow on an unusually shallow and very weak base. This makes for the greatest potential to trigger a large avalanche in wind-drifted terrain so far this season. They can break deeper into old snow layers on northerly and easterly-facing slopes. Choose safer options in wind-sheltered and lower-angled terrain.

Avalanche conditions will remain dangerous through the weekend. Careful planning and conservative terrain selection are essential for safe travel in backcountry avalanche terrain.