Northern San Juan

Strong, gusty winds drift new and old snow at upper elevations. You could trigger an avalanche where drifted snow forms cohesive slabs on steep slopes. The size and reactivity of these avalanches will increase later in the day as new snow accumulates. Shooting cracks and hard-feeling snow underfoot or machine indicate you have found a slab of drifted snow.

You can also trigger an avalanche on buried weak layers 1-3 feet deep. The most dangerous slopes are where new winds drift snow above these shallow buried weak layers.

Additionally, watch out for overhanging cornices. They can break further back than expected and chunks of cornice falling on a slope may trigger a larger avalanche.