Colorado Launches Interactive Avalanche Accident Explorer

An interactive map that pinpoints where fatal avalanches have happened across the state. (Image: avalanche.state.co.us/accident-explorer)

Colorado has launched a new interactive map that pinpoints where fatal avalanches have happened across the state.

The program, called the Avalanche Accident Explorer, was launched yesterday as a collaboration between the Colorado Avalanche Information Center and Colorado Mountain College. It details the locations of fatal avalanches in Colorado since December 2009. 

The map, which is accessible on the Avalanche Information Center’s website, breaks down each case by the travel mode of the person involved—like ski, on foot, snowmobile, snowboard, or snowshoe—and the avalanche type. It is hoped that people can learn how to avoid this natural hazard. 

The Avalanche Information Center has a live forecast on its homepage. It urges all backcountry adventurers to check the forecast, complete avalanche training and be prepared before heading out the door. 

Terry West
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