Avalanche forecast

Northern San Juan

Colorado Avalanche Information Center
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Avalanche danger

Wed
Thu
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
2 · Moderate
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Out of date — this forecast expired last year. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Avalanche problems

  • Persistent Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    2–2.5

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1–2

Avalanche Summary

Strong, gusty winds drift new and old snow at upper elevations. You could trigger an avalanche where drifted snow forms cohesive slabs on steep slopes. The size and reactivity of these avalanches will increase later in the day as new snow accumulates. Shooting cracks and hard-feeling snow underfoot or machine indicate you have found a slab of drifted snow.

You can also trigger an avalanche on buried weak layers 1-3 feet deep. The most dangerous slopes are where new winds drift snow above these shallow buried weak layers.

Additionally, watch out for overhanging cornices. They can break further back than expected and chunks of cornice falling on a slope may trigger a larger avalanche.

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