Northern San Juan

Avalanche

Jason Bushey · Apr 27, 2023 · Northern San Juan

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Weather

Warm and sunny day with small broken clouds that didn't do much. Minimal wind.

Snowpack

Roughly 6" of new snow on all aspects above treeline from the previous storm. On east facing, avalanches were running on the dust layer from the new snow, and roller balls were present on this aspect. The dust layer boot penetration was only 3-4" and problems were all isolated to the new snow and warmth. North facing aspects held well bonded 6-8" of cold new snow that was non reactive to ski cuts.

Avalanche

While climbing E facing alpine at noon, during transition to boot packing a small D1 avalanche released naturally from a rock band in steep terrain. Multiple released within the next 30 minutes. Also observed NW near treeline multiple D1 avalanches originating from rock bands. These were all big enough to knock you off your feet and could present an issue in the wrong terrain choices.