Abajos

Human triggered avalanches remain possible on steep, wind drifted slopes at mid and upper elevations. On steep slopes with a northerly aspect, a triggered slab in the wind drifted snow may step down to a buried persistent weak layer causing a deeper and more dangerous avalanche. Avoid, steep, wind drifted slopes and thinner snowpack areas with very steep, radical terrain.

This forecast is from the U.S.D.A. Forest Service, which is solely responsible for its content. This forecast describes general avalanche conditions and local variations always occur.

If you are getting out in the backcountry, we'd love to hear what you're seeing. Please submit observations here. For the most recent snowpack observations click here. You can also send an email to [email protected] or give me a call with anything noteworthy, especially avalanches! 801-647-8896

NWS Forecast for the Abajo Mountains

Snow totals and temps at Buckboard Flat (8924')

Snow totals and temps at Camp Jackson (8858')

Snowpack Summary and General Conditions

It's been almost two weeks since the last significant snowfall. Time and warmer temperatures have helped to settle and strengthen the snowpack. Slabs of wind drifted snow are mostly stuck in place but it may still be possible to trigger one in isolated areas. Suspect steep slopes that have a smooth, rounded appearance, especially if it sounds hollow underneath. In shallow snowpack areas it is still possible to trigger a deeper avalanche failing on the November persistent weak layer. You are most likely to find this problem on northerly facing slopes in areas of very steep, more radical terrain.

Excellent coverage exists in the Abajos. Brody Levin photo.

The snow surface has been wind affected in exposed areas. Leeward slopes are wind loaded with fresh drifts while exposed windward slopes are sculpted and crusted.