COLORADO SPRINGS, COLORADO — Colorado’s backcountry is under an avalanche warning as an intense winter storm fueled by an atmospheric river threatens to drop up to five feet of snow in the state’s mountains by Wednesday night. The Colorado Avalanche Information Center (CAIC) has elevated the avalanche danger to Level 4 of 5 (High) in parts of the Central and Southern Mountains, with other regions under considerable risk.
The storm, already being hailed as the season’s strongest, began late Monday and is expected to peak Tuesday through Wednesday. Areas like the West Elk Mountains, Monarch Pass, and portions of the San Juan Mountains are at the center of the storm, with snow totals reaching up to four feet in some locations. Moderate winds and dense, wet snow are creating cohesive slabs over weak layers, a combination that could lead to both human-triggered and natural avalanches.
Ethan Greene, director of the CAIC, emphasized the heightened risk:
“This storm will create the most dangerous avalanche conditions we’ve seen so far this season. Backcountry travelers need to make conservative choices and stay out of avalanche terrain.”
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Storm Details and Regional Impacts
- Southern Mountains: The storm will bring rapid snowfall rates exceeding one inch per hour on Tuesday, with up to three feet expected by Wednesday. Avalanche danger is predicted to reach Level 4 (High), and a natural avalanche cycle is anticipated.
- Central Mountains: The Ragged and Ruby Mountains, along with Monarch Pass, will see some of the heaviest snowfall. Avalanche danger is expected to increase rapidly Tuesday afternoon and remain high through Thursday.
- Northern Mountains: While snowfall will be less intense initially, areas like the Park Range and Flat Tops could see two to three feet of snow. Avalanche danger will rise to Level 3 (Considerable) and possibly reach Level 4 in some areas by late Tuesday.
Avalanche Warnings and Watches
The CAIC has issued avalanche warnings for the West Elk Mountains and portions of the Sawatch Range. Avalanche watches remain in effect for the San Juans, Gore Range, and Indian Peaks. Backcountry travelers are urged to avoid avalanche terrain, particularly steep slopes and gullies where slides can run longer and faster than usual due to dense, wet snow.
Free: Complete Colorado 14ers Planner
Every peak. Every trailhead. Every detail: in one spreadsheet.
- All 58 peaks ranked beginner to expert
- Safety notes and seasonal windows for each
- Route difficulty, mileage, and prep tips
Timing and Holiday Concerns
With the Thanksgiving holiday coinciding with the storm’s aftermath, officials are especially concerned about an increase in recreational traffic. Avalanche danger is expected to persist through the weekend, even after the storm subsides, as the snowpack adjusts to the heavy load. “Bluebird skies and fresh powder can tempt people into risky terrain,” Greene warned. “Stick to safe slopes and check forecasts before heading out.”Safety Tips for Backcountry Travelers
- Avoid steep terrain: Any slope over 30 degrees is considered avalanche terrain.
- Heed avalanche forecasts: Updated conditions are available at Colorado Avalanche Information Center.
- Carry safety gear: Always bring a beacon, probe, and shovel, and know how to use them.
- Stay aware of warning signs: Cracking snow, rumbling collapses, or shooting cracks indicate unstable conditions.
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