Northern San Juan

The most dangerous areas are wind-loaded slopes. Southwest winds drifted the new snow into thicker slabs on northerly and easterly-facing slopes. Strong and erratic winds built dangerous drifts lower in the terrain than usual, and on wide open slopes below the treeline. Avalanches in the new snow could break into weaker snow layers several feet deep on slopes facing west through north to east. Avoid areas where you see evidence of recent wind drifting such as fresh cornices, rounded pillows of snow, or a hard, sculpted snow surface. If you experience cracking or collapsing, retreat to slopes around 30 degrees that are sheltered from the wind.

With ample sunshine and above freezing temperatures, watch for small loose avalanches from steep, sunny slopes by early afternoon and avoid traveling above terrain traps like cliffs, gullies, or creek beds.