Abajos

The avalanche danger remains CONSIDERABLE on steep, wind drifted slopes at upper elevations. On slopes facing the north half of the compass, wind drifted snow may have added enough of a load for avalanches to fail down to a buried persistent weak layer causing a deeper and more dangerous avalanche. At mid and lower elevations the danger is MODERATE. Avoid steep slopes where you can detect recent deposits of wind drifted snow.

Strong northwesterly winds blew most of the day yesterday finally backing off a little after midnight last night. Today look for partly cloudy skies as a transient ridge slides over the region. WNW winds will be mostly light switching to SW later today. High temps at 10,000' will be near 30F. On Tuesday, the next closed low moves in just south of the 4 Corners bringing us another chance for snow though amounts look light. Conditions dry out and warm up for the remainder of the week.

NWS Weather Forecast.

Snow totals at Buckboard Flat (8924')

Snow totals at Camp Jackson (8858')

Snowpack Discussion

Snow totals varied across the range with what appears to be 5"-10". Strong NW winds have blown and drifted the new snow, especially in exposed terrain at upper elevations and steep, wind drifted slopes should be avoided. Look for wind drifts on the leeward sides of ridge crests and terrain features such as gully walls and sub ridges. Drifts are recognizable by their smooth, rounded appearance and cracking is a sign of instability. On steep, wind-loaded, northerly aspects, it may still be possible to trigger a deeper avalanche failing on a buried persistent weak layer of sugary, faceted snow.

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This forecast is from the U.S. Forest Service, which is solely responsible for its content. This forecast describes general avalanche conditions and local variations always occur.