Northern San Juan

Light snow fell Friday, favoring the Sangre de Cristos. Southwest wind accompanied the storm drifting snow to lee slopes. West and northwest winds continue to drift snow on Saturday. The new and wind-loaded snow creates deeper drifts but not enough to increase the overall hazard.

The most problematic slopes for triggering avalanches are northerly and east-facing slopes above treeline. On these slopes, a cohesive slab of snow sits over weaker snow near the ground. Look for and avoid continuous snow fields appearing filled-in, rounded, or pillow-shaped on steep slopes. Most avalanches triggered will remain small due to the lack of snow coverage but could take you on an unforgiving ride over natural obstacles. Lower in elevation, over-the-snow travel is challenging because of so little snow coverage.