Moab, Utah – Backcountry travel in the Abajo and Blue Mountains could turn deadly beginning at 6 a.m. Friday as avalanche danger rises to HIGH across southeast Utah.
According to the Forest Service Utah Avalanche Center in Moab, an Avalanche Warning remains in effect from 6 a.m. Friday through 6 a.m. Saturday. Heavy snowfall combined with strong winds has overloaded weak layers in the existing snowpack, creating conditions where both natural and human-triggered avalanches are likely.
The warning covers the Abajo/Blue Mountains in San Juan County, a popular area for snowmobiling, backcountry skiing and hiking near Monticello and Blanding. Wind-drifted slopes, especially on leeward aspects and near ridgelines, pose the greatest threat. Fresh snow sitting atop unstable layers increases the risk of wide, fast-moving slides capable of burying a person.
Officials urge people to avoid avalanche terrain, including steep slopes and runout zones beneath them. Travel in backcountry areas is strongly discouraged until conditions stabilize.
The warning remains in effect through early Saturday morning, and additional updates are expected if snowfall or wind intensifies.
