Northern San Juan

An Avalanche Watch is in effect for the La Garita Mountains, and areas near Slumgullion Pass and the town of Lake City. Very dangerous avalanche conditions are to develop overnight Saturday and last through Monday. Travel in avalanche terrain is not recommended during this time period.

Strong winds drifted recent snowfall into thicker slabs of snow on north to east-facing slopes at upper elevations. Triggering an avalanche from a deep drift could provoke a larger slide that breaks near the ground in weaker snow layers. Look for clues of recent drifting like fresh cornice growth or lens-shaped pillows of snow, and steer clear of areas with a firm snow surface, especially below ridgelines and in open bowls or clearings. If you observe signs of unstable snow, such as cracking in the snow, or hear audible collapses, then move to slopes around 32 degrees or southerly-facing slopes.