Much of Colorado has been sitting with CONSIDERABLE avalanche danger for the past three weeks, but things are finally starting to head down towards MODERATE danger across the state. But don’t be fooled, this does not mean it’s suddenly safe to head out into the backcountry, and avalanches are still very possible, including large and very large slides.
In the Colorado Avalanche Information Center‘s weekly avalanche outlook released on Thursday, January 16, CAIC’s Brian Lazar dives into why the chances of triggering an avalanche are decreasing, but the consequences of triggering one, of triggering large and very large avalanches, remain high.
The most important takeaway should be that it is not suddenly safe to head out into the backcountry. While much of the state is on a MODERATE danger level, it’s on the high end of moderate, and large or very large avalanches are still likely if an avalanche is triggered. If you’re going to head into the backcountry, make sure you have the appropriate gear and training, and that you’ve looked deeply at the forecast, before doing so.
Colorado Avalanche Information Center Basic Avalanche Safety:
Avalanches are possible any time you have snow on a slope. The best thing you can do before you head into the mountains is check the avalanche forecast.
If you are traveling where there isn’t a current avalanche forecast, here are some simple things that will help you avoid avalanches.
- Avalanches are possible when you have snow on a slope steeper than about 30 degrees.
- Most avalanches happen during or soon after a big snowstorm, period of strong winds, or during a thaw (rapid increase in temperature).
- Signs of higher avalanche danger include recent avalanches, cracking in the snow, and audible collapsing. Avoid traveling on or under similar slopes.
If you want to dig deeper, you can view a list of educational resources on our Education Resources page.