Sangre de Cristo

You can find a stiff-over-soft snowpack structure on many slopes near and above treeline. Most slides will break under layers of recently drifted snow, but some may break deeper and surprisingly wide. Use extra caution when traveling above terrain traps or cliff bands where a small avalanche could have outsized consequences. Wind-sheltered slopes less than about 30 degrees in steepness, without steeper terrain overhead, offer safer travel options. With the sun high in the sky and warm air temperatures, expect to see wet avalanches on steep, sun-baked slopes. The snow surface will warm first on east-facing slopes, then south and west-facing slopes during the day. Retreat to shady slopes if you see rollerballs or find about 6 inches of wet, sticky snow.

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