Northern San Juan
AvalancheJeff Davis · Apr 30, 2017 · Northern San Juan
Weather
Clear skies, with honking winds. Temperatures were below freezing except at lower elevations that were wind protected.
Snowpack
6-8 inches of new snow. Plums of snow were observed off peaks and exposed ridgelines. Drifts of new snow were found up to 2 feet deep. The new and wind drifted snow fell on a very firm surface and the new snow was sensitive on steep slopes. Fantastic riding conditions were had on lower angled protected slopes. At lower elevations the snow was settling quickly under warm temperatures and the strong spring sun.
Avalanche
A skier triggered a small slide on a wind-loaded convex rollover near treeline on a south-facing slope after the slope had warmed. Small natural avalanches were observed on Southerly slopes as they were rapidly wind-loaded. Signs of warming were observed on sunny slopes in the afternoon.