A series of large, human-triggered avalanches since Friday has led the Colorado Avalanche Information Center (CAIC) to warn of considerable avalanche danger across the southern Colorado mountains.
Forecasters say a combination of fresh snowfall, clear weather, and unstable backcountry conditions is increasing the likelihood of avalanche incidents. Good weather often draws more recreationists into the mountains, where activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling can trigger slides under the current conditions.
The heightened danger stems from heavy snow falling on top of a weak, dry snowpack that developed earlier in the season. Strong winds have further overloaded slopes, creating additional instability and increasing the potential for avalanches.
CAIC currently rates the danger as Level 3 — Considerable on a five-point scale in most central and southern mountain zones. At this level, dangerous avalanche conditions exist, and human-triggered avalanches are likely.
Backcountry travelers are urged to use extreme caution, carefully evaluate terrain, and check the latest forecasts before heading into avalanche-prone areas.
