Southern San Juan

Strong north and northwest winds wreaked havoc on the snowpack. You can trigger a small avalanche on southerly slopes where you observe around ten inches or more of drifted snow. An avalanche in a cross-loaded terrain, primarily on east-facing slopes, could step down to buried weak layers, triggering a larger, more dangerous slide.

Avoid slopes steeper than around 35 degrees with a smooth, pillowy appearance or areas that feel hard and sound hollow. If you see shooting cracks, hear collapses, or transition from soft to harder snow, choose an alternative route or different slope. Below treeline areas without steep overhead hazards offer safer travel options.