Summit County and the Front Range, Colorado – A skier triggered an avalanche on a northeast-facing slope near Janet’s Cabin on February 8, 2026.

The footage shows snow breaking away from a hard slab, tumbling down the mountainside in a sudden slide. It underscores the persistent avalanche risk in the area, where danger remains MODERATE (2 of 5) on February 10, 2026.

Recent Persistent Slab avalanches have been focused on east, southeast, and south-facing slopes, with some on northeast-facing slopes. Slabs form when snow feels hard and sinks only a few inches, often sitting on weaker layers that can collapse. On steep slopes above 30-35 degrees, they can release as avalanches.

Skiers and hikers are advised to avoid recently wind-loaded slopes, especially just below ridgetops, to reduce risk.

Elsewhere, avalanche danger is generally LOW (1 of 5) due to a shallow snowpack. Small Loose Dry avalanches may occur on steep, shady slopes near and below treeline. Even minor slides can be dangerous if they push someone into terrain traps like gullies, rocks, dense trees, or cliffs.

Forecasters expect new snow and wind by Thursday, which could raise danger to MODERATE across much of the state. The incident near Janet’s Cabin is a reminder that even a light winter can still produce deadly avalanches.

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