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Forecast for the Abajos Area Mountains

Eric Trenbeath
Issued by Eric Trenbeath for
Sunday, April 7, 2019
The avalanche danger is generally LOW this morning but will rise to MODERATE as the day heats up. Be alert to signs of wet snow instability such as roller balls and pinwheels, and get off of steep slopes as they become wet and sloppy. Work with the sun today and be down early. If you are venturing into steep, high elevation, north facing terrain maintain your avalanche awareness. It is still possible to trigger loose snow sluffs that could knock you off your feet and carry you over a cliff. Also be on the lookout for isolated areas of wind drifted snow.
Low
Moderate
Considerable
High
Extreme
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Special Announcements
Next Sunday, April 14 will be the last regular advisory for the season. I will post updates as conditions warrant through the rest of the month.
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Weather and Snow
Skies are clear, westerly winds are averaging 15-20 mph along ridge tops, and 10,000' temps are in the mid 20's. It's going to be a glorious day in the mountains. High pressure aloft will bring sunny skies and warm temperatures through tomorrow. Daytime highs will be in the mid 40's at 10,000'. Things will take a turn by Wednesday when a strong Pacific storm system moves into the region. The main energy looks like it may favor the north, but we are still likely to see some decent accumulation.
Snotel totals at Buckboard Flat (8924')
Snotel totals at Camp Jackson (8858')
Wind, temperature, and humidity on Abajo Peak (11,000')
National Weather Service point forecast.
Avalanche Problem #1
Wet Snow
Type
Location
Likelihood
Size
Description
As temperatures soar into the 40's under sunny skies, you'll need to be alert to a rising danger for wet slide activity. Look for signs if instability such as roller balls and pinwheels, and get off of steep slopes as they become wet and sloppy. Work with the sun today and be down early.
Avalanche Problem #2
Normal Caution
Type
Location
Likelihood
Size
Description
Low danger doesn't mean no danger. Continue to be on the lookout for isolated wind rolls on the leeward sides of high elevation ridge crests and terrain features. Loose snow sluffing on very steep, north facing slopes is also still a possibility. Though mostly shallow, and not very wide, a loose sluff could carry you over a cliff and ruin your day if not your life. Practice safe travel techniques, and carefully evaluate the snow before committing to extreme terrain.
General Announcements
Your information can save lives. If you see anything we should know about, please help us out by submitting snow and avalanche observations HERE. You can also call me at 801-647-8896, or send me an email: [email protected].
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This forecast is from the U.S.D.A. Forest Service, which is solely responsible for its content. This forecast describes general avalanche conditions and local variations always occur.