Southern San Juan

Strong winds have drifted new snow into 2-3 foot slabs on leeward slopes. You can trigger a large and dangerous avalanche where you find more than about 8 inches of new wind-drifted snow. Wind-drifted snow often feels stiff or has a smooth, lense-like appearance. Expect new snow depth to vary significantly across slopes and terrain features and drifting in unusual places below treeline.

An avalanche triggered in the new storm snow may step down to buried weak layers. This is more likely in shallow areas of the snowpack, including steep rollovers, below ridges and cliffs, and near rock outcroppings. Wind-sheltered lower-angle terrain offers safer travel options.