Northern San Juan

You could trigger avalanches on most steep slopes. Avalanches in the most recent snow could step down to lower weak layers. Avalanches can grow larger on easterly slopes where wind stiffened slabs of snow are thicker and broader across the terrain. Look for and avoid areas that look smooth and rounded. You are most likely to trigger avalanches from the margins of the slab include convex rollovers, shallow buried rocks, and just below ridgelines or cliffs. Low-angle slopes less than about 30 degrees without steep slopes above offer the safest riding options.

A strong winter storm is expected to bring snow and wind to the area starting Tuesday afternoon. Avalanche danger will rise Wednesday as the weak and shallow snowpack is quickly overloaded.