Colorado – An Avalanche Watch has been issued for parts of western Colorado as heavy snowfall is expected to create high-risk avalanche conditions across the Elk Mountains this weekend.
According to the Colorado Avalanche Information Center, avalanche danger is forecast to reach HIGH (Level 4 of 5) in the Ruby Range and Ragged Range of the Elk Mountains. Dangerous conditions are expected to begin late Friday evening and persist through 5 p.m. Sunday.
Forecasters warn that large and dangerous avalanches will be easy to trigger, with the potential for natural avalanches occurring without human involvement. The combination of heavy new snow and unstable snowpack is expected to significantly increase the likelihood of widespread avalanche activity.
Backcountry travel in avalanche terrain is not recommended during the watch period. Officials urge recreationists to avoid travel on or beneath slopes steeper than 30 degrees, where avalanche risk is greatest. Even areas that appear stable can quickly become hazardous as conditions deteriorate.
The Avalanche Watch applies specifically to mountainous backcountry terrain and does not directly affect valley communities. However, officials stress that conditions can change rapidly and advise anyone planning outdoor travel to closely monitor updated forecasts.
More detailed avalanche information, including daily forecasts and safety guidance, is available at colorado.gov/avalanche.
