Gunnison

Generally safe avalanche conditions exist.  There's an unlikely chance for you to trigger a small slab avalanche at the highest elevations in extreme terrain, or where you find drifted snow on northerly aspects.  Seasonally warm temperatures could create a small loose avalanche problem in the afternoon if you encounter a wet and mushy snowpack.

The winter storm at the start of the work week caused a few natural and human-triggered avalanches immediately after the storm left the region.  Warmer temperatures since the storm helped to reduce the distribution of any lingering issues with Wind Slabs.  It's unlikely, but not impossible for you to encounter a sensitive slab at the highest elevations.  The most likely place would be above treeline on northerly-facing slopes where you might encounter dry snow surfaces.  Consider this possibility if you choose to ride in extreme terrain where the consequences of a small avalanche can be severe.

The snowpack experienced multiple warm periods this spring and transitioned through several wet avalanche cycles.  Wet avalanche concerns have reduced with the cloudy weather forecast and relatively mild high temperatures.  Small loose avalanches can be expected if you encounter more than a few inches of wet snow.  If you find a wet and unsupportive snowpack, then head for cooler snow or lower-angled terrain.  Some northerly-facing slopes have thinner crusts capping dry snow in the upper snowpack and could present a more significant loose snow avalanche problem once skies clear and warmer temperatures return to the region.

Sunday, April 21st will be the final daily avalanche forecast for the season.  On Monday, a general spring conditions guide will be posted.  CBAC forecasters will continue to post observations submitted by the public through the end of May so please share your observations from spring tours.