DENVER, COLORADO – The Colorado Avalanche Information Center (CAIC) issued a Special Avalanche Advisory for this weekend, warning that backcountry avalanche conditions are dangerous across much of the state’s mountains. The CAIC cautioned that avalanches can be easily triggered, even from hundreds of feet away, and are running long distances with the potential to pull back onto low-angled terrain.
“Backcountry travelers are describing conditions with terms like ‘sketchy,’ ‘surprising,’ or ‘scary,’” the advisory noted, highlighting the heightened risk posed by weak layers in the snowpack. The advisory stressed that recent avalanche activity offers a grim reminder of the deadly consequences of backcountry incidents, with fatal avalanches already reported this season in Utah and Nevada under similar conditions.
No Clear Warning Signs, But Significant Risks
One key challenge for backcountry users is the lack of obvious signs of snowpack instability, such as shooting cracks or audible “whumpfs,” which might otherwise signal danger. This deceptive calm may lead to overconfidence and lure users closer to steep, avalanche-prone terrain.
“While there are plenty of avalanches to observe, the snowpack may not give you obvious signs of instability before an avalanche releases,” the advisory stated. This dynamic makes it critical for travelers to maintain vigilance and avoid steep slopes greater than 30 degrees.
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Dangerous Slide Near Eisenhower Tunnel
The CAIC provided an example of the current hazard: a slide near the Eisenhower Tunnel on December 31. Backcountry riders triggered the avalanche from a sunny, low-angled slope, while another group was digging a snow profile nearby. This incident underscores the risk of remote triggers and the importance of being aware of avalanche terrain and other parties in the backcountry.
Recommendations for Safer Travel
The CAIC advises backcountry travelers to:
- Avoid slopes steeper than 30 degrees and steer clear of large avalanche paths.
- Pay attention to steep slopes above, even when traveling on flat or gentle terrain.
- Maintain awareness of other groups and their proximity to potential avalanche terrain.
- Exercise patience and vigilance, as dangerous conditions are likely to persist.
A Call for Caution
With conditions described as “touchy” and “unforgiving,” the CAIC urges backcountry enthusiasts to prioritize safety and avoid unnecessary risks. “The dangerous conditions are here to stay, and with that, we need our patience and vigilance to remain equally steadfast,” the advisory concluded.
For up-to-date avalanche forecasts and safety resources, visit the Colorado Avalanche Information Center at https://avalanche.state.co.us/.
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