RBC | Last weekend’s storms brought significant snowfall to the Flat Tops and Steamboat areas, prompting the Colorado Avalanche Information Center to declare the chance for backcountry avalanche conditions above, near and below treeline as moderate (as of Wednesday, Jan. 9).
According to the Center’s website, “Large amounts of snow fell in the past week with up to two feet of accumulations in many areas. This was the biggest storm of the winter for the Flat Tops and North Routt County and the snowpack is going to need some time to adjust to this large load. Before committing to any steep slope dig down and look for weaker and softer layers of snow beneath the consolidated storm snow. Pay attention to obvious signs of instability such as shooting cracks and whumpfing sounds. Stick to low-angle slopes if you observe these warning signs.” A “moderate” chance of avalanches means there is heightened risk of avalanches on specific terrain features.
For current conditions and warnings, visit https://avalanche. state.co.us/.
By NIKI TURNER | [email protected]
