Southern San Juan

New snow and strong winds built dangerous slabs at upper elevations. Avalanches may release naturally and run long distances. A slide triggered from a wind-drifted area could provoke a more dangerous slide that breaks deeper than expected, above you, and grows large enough to bury, injure or kill you. Avoid freshly drifted areas with a smooth and rounded appearance below ridges, in cross-loaded gullies, and in dish-like terrain features where an avalanche may be easier to trigger. Lower-elevation slopes and wind-sheltered areas without steeper terrain overhead offer safer travel options.