Sawatch

Strong winds with varying directions have built dense slabs over weak snow. Slabs may have been built farther down on slopes than you are used to. A slide in the recent snow can step down into deeper layers creating a large and destructive avalanche. You can identify drifted areas by their rounded, wave-like appearance. Shooting cracks and collapses are sure signs you should avoid these dangerous slopes. Wind-sheltered slopes and slopes less than 30 degrees steep, without steep slopes above them offer safer travel.

As temperatures climb and the sun heats snow surfaces, you can expect Loose Wet avalanches to become a concern on steep lower-elevation slopes. Snow with exposed dust and near rock bands will heat up faster. Wet, mushy, and gloppy snow are signs to move to colder aspects or call it a day.