Colorado, USA – Snowpack conditions across Colorado’s mountains remain dangerous, even where obvious warning signs are limited. Experts warn that avalanches can still be triggered in steep terrain despite a lack of fresh slides, collapsing snow, or visible cracks.

The Northern Mountains are particularly hazardous. East, southeast, and south-facing slopes near and above treeline—including Summit County, the Gore Range, Berthoud Pass, and areas north along the Front Range—pose the greatest risk. A shallow weak layer under wind-drifted snow can easily collapse, creating potentially large slides.

In the West Elk Mountains, big avalanches are less likely but still possible. Skiers and hikers are urged to avoid stiff, wind-drifted pockets, thin or rocky areas, and slopes recently loaded by wind.

Forecasters caution that snow expected Friday into Saturday could dramatically increase avalanche danger. Even in a low-snow year, new snowfall and wind can rapidly change the stability of the snowpack. Outdoor enthusiasts are reminded not to let the lure of fresh powder cloud their judgment.

Officials emphasize careful planning and checking forecasts before heading into avalanche-prone terrain, and urge people to match their activities to current conditions. Recent observations confirm that slides can break large enough to bury anyone caught off guard.

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