Southern San Juan

The strong winter storm entering Colorado favors the Central and Northern Mountains. Parts of this forecast area could receive a foot of snow, while other areas only see a few inches. Avalanche danger will be highest in places that receive more than 8 inches of new snow. Strong west and southwest winds will drift any available snow at all elevations, loading and cross-loading slopes.

The most dangerous slopes are at upper elevations steeper than about 35 degrees, northerly or easterly-facing, and have around 8 inches of new or wind-driven snow. Drifted pockets of snow often look smooth, rounded, or lense-like. Sometimes, drifted snow feels stiff and hollow. Avoid steep slopes where you observe these surface clues. You can find safer travel options on low-angled slopes sheltered from the wind without steep hazards above.