Northern San Juan

You could trigger avalanches where you find cohesive slabs of snow sitting on top of weak snow. Avalanches are more likely in wind-drifted snow at upper elevations. The most dangerous slopes face northeast through east. Drifted snow often feels stiff and may crack under your weight. If you feel collapsing or cracking, you can choose safer terrain by moving to slopes less than about 35 degrees in steepness.

On Tuesday, January 7, a backcountry skier was caught and killed in an avalanche on Red Mountain Number 3, near Red Mountain Pass. The avalanche was triggered on a wind-drifted northwest-facing slope near treeline. Our deepest condolences to the deceased skier's family, friends, and community. You can read the preliminary accident report here.