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“Colorado experienced their first avalanche fatality of the 2018 season according to the Colorado Avalanche Information Center. A backcountry skier was killed today in an area, locally know as Sam’s Trees, between Red Mountain Pass and the town of Silverton. Our deepest condolences go out to the friends and family of the victim. The Northern San Juan’s have seen up to 20” of new snow in a 24 hour period. While the current danger rating is considerable (3), please remain vigilant while traveling in the backcountry. Natural avalanches are possible while human triggered avalanches are likely.”
9 News Denver reports Colorado experienced its first avalanche fatality of the 2018 season on Sunday in southwest Colorado in an area locally known as Sam’s Trees, between Red Mountain Pass and Silverton. Details are sparse on the circumstance surrounding the death. The name of the skier who was killed has not been released at this time.
San Miguel County Search and Rescue urges people to use extreme caution and remain vigilant while traveling in the backcountry with unstable conditions persistant in the area.
The Northern San Juan’s have gotten up to 20 inches of new snow in a 24-hour period and the CAIC says the avalanche danger in this area is considerable right now. Be safe, be smart, know before you go.