DENVER (KDVR) – Much-needed snow is falling across the mountains of Colorado, and a large amount of snowfall is expected in the remote areas (2 feet of fresh snow in some spots).
That amount of snow in such a short time leads to an increased risk of avalanches, so avalanche watches have been released for the ranges below, in yellow, through early Saturday morning.
The Colorado Avalanche Information Center has forecast a high risk (4 out of 5) of avalanches Friday in track areas, meaning very hazardous conditions are present. This includes Aspen, Gunnison, North San Juan, South San Juan, and Steamboat and Flat Tops.
Avalanche terrain is not recommended, with the highest risk being at or on the bamboo track.
Other areas not in the monitoring area but still forecast to be at significant risk (3 out of 5) because of Friday’s avalanche include Sawatch, Vail and Summit County, and the Front Range. Hazardous conditions will last through Friday and it’s best to avoid areas that show signs of wind loading (slippery pillows of snow, contours below trenches or cracks in the snow surface).
Use extreme caution if you decide to head to the faraway lands on Friday and also over the weekend, especially when the skies are clear and the temperatures are mild again on Saturday and Sunday.
https://kdvr.com/weather/weather-forecast/avalanche-watch-in-the-mountains-high-risk-in-some-spots/ High risk of Friday avalanche in parts of Colorado
