Persistent 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
Tue
Wed
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
2 · Moderate
Out of date — this forecast expired 6 months ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.
Avalanche problems
Wind Slabs
NNEESESSWWNW- Alpine
- Treeline
- Below treeline
- Likelihood
- Possible
- Size
- 1–1.5
Loose Wet
NNEESESSWWNW- Alpine
- Treeline
- Below treeline
- Likelihood
- Possible
- Size
- 1–1.5
Avalanche Summary
You can trigger a slab avalanche on a wind-drifted slope at upper elevations. On northerly or easterly-facing terrain, one of these might break deeper into buried weak layers and grow into a destructive slide. Lower-angled slopes in wind-sheltered terrain offer safer conditions. Move away from steep slopes with wet snow later in the day.
On March 7th, a backcountry skier was caught and killed in an avalanche near Vail Pass. The avalanche released on a northeast-facing slope near treeline, about 2 to 3 feet deep. Our deepest condolences to the deceased skier's family, friends, and community. You can read the preliminary accident report here.