Northern San Juan
AvalancheJeff Davis Ann Mellick · Apr 4, 2016 · Northern San Juan
Weather
Very warm spring day. Light winds and ample sunshine.
Snowpack
Spring time is upon us. Temperatures are quickly warming the snow surface on south and east aspects. By 11 am the top 5cm was corn. On north aspect above treeline the snow is still dry and winter-like but with a few more days like today and that will change. In any area that had previously sluffed the debris has set up and created some very difficult riding conditions. Be aware if you choose to ride a line with tracks in it as they will be firm. Below treeline the snow has become wet and it is easy to trigger a Loose Wet avalanche on steep slopes. On S and W slopes the dust layer has once again made it to the surface and this is going to accelerate the snowpack melting. A few more warm days like this and we are going to see significant change in snow depth.
Avalanche
Multiple Loose Wet avalanches observed as snow fell off steep rocky slopes.