Northern San Juan

A Special Avalanche Advisory is in effect for the southern San Juan Mountains. New snow and winds through the holiday weekend will create dangerous avalanche conditions developing Saturday afternoon through Monday. 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 an avalanche on easterly-facing slopes above treeline where recent strong winds have formed thick slabs. Cracking on the snow surface is an indicator of unstable snow. Avoid steep easterly slopes at upper elevations that have a smooth, pillowy appearance or begin to feel firm underfoot. For safer travel options, choose wind-sheltered below treeline or slopes less than 30 degrees steep, without steep slopes above.