Southern San Juan

Triggering an avalanche in weak snow buried below a thick slab of cohesive snow has become more difficult, but is not out of the question. You are more likely to impact deeper weak snow layers near the margins of a slab or around rocky outcrops where the snowpack is shallower. You may not receive any warning signs like shooting cracks or audible collapses before the slope avalanches. A slide triggered from a wind-drifted area appearing smooth and rounded could provoke a more dangerous slide that breaks deeper than expected, above you, and grows large enough to bury, injure or kill you. Lower-elevation slopes and wind-sheltered areas without steeper terrain overhead offer safer travel options.