Grand Mesa

A Special Avalanche Advisory is in effect for mountainous areas of Colorado. New snow and winds through the holiday weekend will increase the avalanche danger statewide. Very dangerous avalanche conditions will develop in some regions, with the most dangerous conditions developing Saturday afternoon and into Sunday. Avalanche conditions will be more dangerous than we’ve experienced in weeks. Adjust your weekend plans accordingly and check the forecast frequently for changing conditions.

You can easily trigger avalanches breaking 1 to 3 feet deep in the accumulating and drifting snow. Some avalanches may release naturally. Observers noted shooting cracks and collapsing on Wednesday, and conditions will become more dangerous on Thursday with additional snowfall. Where you find stiffer wind-drifted slabs, you will be able to trigger avalanches from a distance or below. Sheltered slopes less than 30 degrees without steep slopes overhead offer the safest travel options