Northern San Juan

The majority of slopes don't harbor enough snow cover to produce an avalanche. The most likely place to trigger a small avalanche exist on northerly-facing slopes in the alpine. This is where cohesive slabs of snow sit above weak, early-season snow. Avoid steep gullies and rocky areas near ridgelines to help reduce an unexpected avalanche encounter. Going for a ride or being knocked off your feet can be dangerous with numerous natural obstacles immediately below the snow surface.

A strong winter storm begins impacting the San Juan Mountains early Friday lasting into Saturday evening. Expect periods of heavy snow, strong winds, snow accumulations of one to two feet, and a rise in the avalanche danger through the weekend.