Grand Mesa

A Special Avalanche Advisory is in effect for the Flat Tops and Grand Mesa. Feet of recent snow and strong winds have formed thick cohesive slabs above an unusually shallow and weak snowpack. Avalanche conditions will remain dangerous through the weekend. Careful planning and conservative terrain selection are essential for safe travel in backcountry avalanche terrain.

You can easily trigger large and dangerous avalanches on some steep slopes. On west through north to southeast-facing slopes, an avalanche will break one to three (or more) feet deep, and can bury a person. Also, keep an eye on steep sunny slopes. These could become wet and unstable as they warm throughout the day. Sticking to lower-angle terrain is the best way to stay safe.