Abajos

Human triggered avalanches involving new and wind drifted snow are likely today. Backcountry travelers should avoid slopes steeper than 30 degrees, especially those that have recent deposits of wind drifted snow. Recent wind drifts are recognizable by their smooth, rounded appearance, and cracking is a sign of instability. On some northerly aspects, thick slabs of wind drifted snow are sitting on top of weak layers in the snowpack increasing the potential for deeper avalanches. Avoiding steep, northerly facing terrain is the best policy right now.

Another 8" of snow has recently fallen in the Abajos for a storm total of 15"

NWS forecast for the Abajo Mountains.

Snow totals and temps at Buckboard Flat (8924')

Snow totals and temps at Camp Jackson (8858')

Snowpack Summary and General Conditions

The Abajos have seen 15 inches of snow and strong winds creating dangerous avalanche conditions in the backcountry. New and wind drifted snow has caused the danger to increase. The greatest danger exists on steep slopes facing NW-N-E-SE but all slopes steeper than 30 degrees are suspect. Backcountry travelers need to know how to recognize and avoid avalanche terrain. In some areas, avalanches triggered in the new snow may step down to a buried persistent weak layer causing a deeper and more dangerous avalanche. Give the snowpack some time to adjust to the new load before venturing onto steep terrain.

If you are getting out in the backcountry, we'd love to hear what you're seeing. Please submit observations here. For the most recent snowpack observations click here. You can also send an email to [email protected] or give me a call with anything noteworthy, especially avalanches! 801-647-8896

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