12/17/2024
Unfortunately, the storm track stays mainly to the north of the Central and Southern Mountains. Dry December continues with a weakening and variable snowpack.
In the Central Mountains, Persistent Slab avalanches are possible near and above treeline, where wind-drifted snow has buried our early December drought layer. This precarious set-up is present on some east, northeast, and north-facing slopes. Meanwhile, loose dry facet sluffs are also possible and may pack a punch on steep (above about 35 degrees) and sustained terrain features. Where the snow surface is soft and sugary, expect Loose Dry avalanches on slopes nearing 40 degrees. Where you find more supportable conditions, you’ve found a potential slab avalanche concern.
In the Southern Mountains, the avalanche danger is low (1 of 5). However, LOW (1 of 5) danger does not mean no danger. This fact is highlighted by the small Wind Slab avalanche problem. The 4th rider in the group triggered this small Wind Slab avalanche on a 35-degree west-facing slope below treeline north of Silverton. They triggered the slide as they made a turn adjacent to a convex roll on a cross-loaded terrain feature.
To understand what you will be facing and how to manage it, check the forecast at Colorado.gov/avalanche for the full details.
📸 Matthew C.
