Sawatch

An upslope weather event will bring new snow and easterly winds, loading slopes in unusual places. Use extra caution if you find more than 10 inches of new or drifted snow on slopes steeper than around 35 degrees. Terrain features below ridges, cornices, or along steep gully walls are likely places for new slabs to form and where you can trigger an avalanche. Older slabs on north and east-facing terrain can also be problematic if you find a thin spot near rocks or around the margins. Stick to lower-angle, wind-sheltered slopes to lessen your chances of triggering a slide.