Wind Slabs
N
NE
E
SE
S
SW
W
NW
- Alpine
- Treeline
- Below treeline
- Likelihood
- Possible
- Size
- 1–2
Avalanche forecast
View on mapGrand Mesa
Colorado Avalanche Information Center
Avalanche danger
Wed
Thu
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
2 · Moderate
Out of date — this forecast expired 2 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.
Avalanche problems
Loose Wet
NNEESESSWWNW- Alpine
- Treeline
- Below treeline
- Likelihood
- Possible
- Size
- 1–2
Avalanche Summary
You can trigger an avalanche in wind-drifted snow on the lee sides of a ridgeline near the top of a slope. Wind-drifted snow often has a smooth, wave-like surface appearance and you will experience a hard, hollow feeling to the snow if you are traveling across it. These more dangerous slopes are mostly on north, northeast, and east-facing slopes. Identify and avoid wind-drifted snow on slopes steeper than about 35 degrees to reduce your chances of triggering an avalanche.
You can also trigger a smaller wet avalanche on sunny slopes as the sun heats up the snow surface. Avoid sustained steep slopes or slopes with terrain traps such as a cliff or creek below you once you notice the snow surface getting wet.