Avalanche forecast

Southern San Juan

Colorado Avalanche Information Center
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Avalanche danger

Fri
Sat
Alpine
3 · Considerable
Treeline
3 · Considerable
Below
2 · Moderate
Out of date — this forecast expired 2 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Avalanche problems

  • Persistent Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    2–3
  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Likely
    Size
    1–2
  • Storm Slabs

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

Avalanche Summary

Strong winds have drifted new snow into 2-3 foot slabs on leeward slopes. You can trigger a large and dangerous avalanche where you find more than about 8 inches of new wind-drifted snow. Wind-drifted snow often feels stiff or has a smooth, lense-like appearance. Expect new snow depth to vary significantly across slopes and terrain features and drifting in unusual places below treeline.

An avalanche triggered in the new storm snow may step down to buried weak layers. This is more likely in shallow areas of the snowpack, including steep rollovers, below ridges and cliffs, and near rock outcroppings. Wind-sheltered lower-angle terrain offers safer travel options.

Regions covered