Northern San Juan
AvalancheJeff Davis · Jan 12, 2017 · Northern San Juan
Weather
While driving on 550 snow was observed on the Top of Red Mountain pass at both 10:30am and 3:00pm. Snow seemed to start just past the snow shed and stopped past Ophir pass road. Significant snow was not observed during other parts of the drive. Temps were in the mid 20's at the top off all three passes.
Snowpack
Red Mountain Pass, Silverton, Coal Bank pass and Molas Passs received a healthy dose of snow over the past week. Most slopes in these areas look fat and loaded. Wind-loaded pockets of snow were observed at all evaluation bands and large cornices have developed on exposed ridges. The Natural actively observed was impressive. Most avalanches broke in the storm snow our stepped down to a layer in the mid-pack. The North San Juan zone itself is like a slab, there are fat areas that are strong and shallow areas that are weak. It was eye opening today to get back south to see how much snow they have received lately compared to the Telluride area.
Avalanche
Estimated all avalanches ran 1/10