Abajos

On steep, north through easterly aspects human triggered avalanches involving slabs of wind drifted snow are possible. Look for areas of drifted snow on the leeward sides of ridge crests and terrain features.

On south through west facing slopes, and on low elevation northerly aspects, the danger for loose wet avalanches will rise as the day heats up. Signs of instability include rollerballs, pinwheels, and sloppy wet snow. Stay off of, and out from under steep slopes where these signs are present.

NWS forecast for the Abajo Mountains.

Snow totals and temps at Buckboard Flat (8924')

Snow totals and temps at Camp Jackson (8858')

Snowpack Summary and General Conditions

Strong southerly winds on Wednesday blew and drifted snow into slabs on leeward slopes near treeline and above. The problem is most pronounced on upper elevation slopes with a north or easterly aspect, but cross-loading may also occur on slopes facing west or southeast. Look for fresh drifting on the leeward sides of ridge crests and terrain features such as gully walls and sub ridges. Shooting cracks in drifted snow are a sure sign of instability. Backcountry travelers should avoid any steep slopes that have recent deposits of wind drifted snow.

On south through west facing slopes, and on low elevation northerly aspects, the danger for loose wet avalanches will rise as the day heats up. Signs of instability include rollerballs, pinwheels, and sloppy wet snow. Stay off of, and out from under steep slopes where these signs are present.

If you are getting out in the backcountry, we'd love to hear what you're seeing. Please submit observations here. For the most recent snowpack observations click here. You can also send an email to [email protected] or give me a call with anything noteworthy, especially avalanches! 801-647-8896

This forecast is from the U.S.D.A. Forest Service, which is solely responsible for its content. This forecast describes general avalanche conditions and local variations always occur.