A significant storm system is set to slam Colorado this week and forecasters with the Colorado Avalanche Information Center are warning backcountry travelers to take conditions seriously despite the calendar reading May.
As of Tuesday, May 4th, the avalanche danger sits at Moderate (2 of 5) across portions of the Northern and Central Mountains where snowfall accumulations are expected to top 8 inches by Tuesday evening. Areas receiving less snowfall should see generally Low (1 of 5) danger with typical spring conditions in play. Travelers are encouraged to plan around the melt-freeze cycle, getting an early start and moving off steep terrain before warming afternoon temperatures turn the snowpack to soup.
Wednesday is where conditions turn sharply more concerning. The incoming storm is forecast to drop 1-2 feet of snow in some areas including Rocky Mountain National Park, Cameron Pass, and the northern Front Range. That kind of loading, even with modest winds, is enough to push avalanche danger to High (4 of 5) along Colorado’s eastern Front Range. At High danger, natural avalanches are considered likely, and the Colorado Avalanche Information Center recommends avoiding avalanche terrain entirely.
Areas receiving around 15 inches of new snow can expect Considerable (3 of 5) danger, where natural avalanches become possible and human triggering on steep slopes is a very real risk.
The timing of this storm introduces additional complexity. New snow falling onto old spring surfaces creates a particularly unstable layering scenario, even at this late point in the season. Significant snowpack remains near and above treeline across the high country, meaning there is plenty of material for avalanche activity to develop.
Backcountry travelers are advised to stick to low-angle terrain, steer clear of avalanche paths and overhead hazards, and consult the latest forecast from the Colorado Avalanche Information Center before heading out.
