Southern San Juan

Avalanche

Rich Silkey · Jan 5, 2019 · Southern San Juan

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Weather

Temps were more than likely in lower 30's and did not soften the crusts on the southern aspects. Wind loading was observed from moderate SW winds, at treeline and above.

Snowpack

Collapsing and cracking was observed very frequently on all aspects travelled on below treeline and at treeline. We skied slope angles primarily below 32 degrees due to the widespread collapsing that was occuring. The last 34 " storm settled into a soft slab above large facets near the ground. I think anchors such a downed trees and stumps were anchoring the slab and helping prevent these slopes from avalanching, at below treeline elevations. Very touchy snowpack.

Avalanche

Many old avalanches were observed below and at treeline on numerous aspects and elevations.