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Human-triggered avalanches 'likely' |
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Wednesday, January 25, 2012 09:07 |
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Avy activity in the Cameron Pass area, as posted on the CAIC website. "Note width of fracture and the start zone elevation; typical for deep slab instabilities. 'This would be hard to escape from.'"
We're between storms in the high country Wednesday, so you may be tempted to get out there and hit it while there's fresh snow and the sun is shining.
If you do, it's best to stick to one of Colorado's many established ski areas -- and stay on open runs, even though IT IS POSSIBLE to get caught in an avalanche at a ski area!
The Colorado Avalanche Information Center says danger of avalanche remains "considerable" for much of the high country. Our weak snowpack followed by recent storms that dumped a foot or more of snow have created dangerous conditions, even on low-degree slopes.
Four Coloradans died in avalanches between Jan. 18 and 22 - three while skiing and one while snowmobiling. At least a half-dozen others were caught in those avalanches or other slides but managed to escape.
"This is not a time to test riding skills in big terrain," the CAIC posted on its site Wednesday morning. "Even small terrain in unusual areas is subject to question.
"We've gotten good observations recently, still lots of collapse, remote triggered avalanches, and a 'very present strong-over-weak layer' snowpack. Not something to trust."
You can learn more about avalanches, avalanche danger, and how to keep yourself safe at the CAIC website.
Avalanche safety classes are offered across Colorado. If you're planning to venture out beyond the established ski areas, please be prepared!
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