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Forecast for the Abajos Area Mountains

Eric Trenbeath
Issued by Eric Trenbeath on
Saturday morning, December 7, 2019
The avalanche danger is generally LOW and mostly stable snow conditions exist. LOW danger doesn't mean no danger, and here are a couple things to keep in mind.
Persistent Weak Layer - There is a layer of moderately weak faceted snow at the base of the snowpack. Though unlikely, it may be possible to trigger an avalanche on this weak layer on steep, northerly facing aspects.
Wind Drifted Snow - There may still be some isolated wind slabs scattered around the high country and increasing winds today may form a few more. Always be on the lookout for areas of wind drifted snow. Look for cracking in the snow surface and avoid slopes that sound and feel hollow like a drum.
Carry appropriate rescue gear and continue to practice safe travel techniques such as only putting one person on a slope at a time.
Low
Moderate
Considerable
High
Extreme
Learn how to read the forecast here
Special Announcements
The First Annual Avalanche Awareness Week is December 2-7 We have a week full of fun and educational events planned. Check out the schedule here.
Thanks to everyone who turned out and packed the house for this year's annual Know Before You Go avalanche awareness presentation! It's great to see so many folks interested in learning how to play safely in the mountains!
The first UAC podcast of the season " Early Season Essentials with Program Director Bo Torrey" check it out HERE.
Get one of these cool t-shirts to support the UAC and other avalanche centers across the U.S.
Weather and Snow
Winds have been on the increase overnight and are currently averaging 20 mph with gusts to 30. Skies are mostly clear and 10,000' temps are in the low 20's.
It was a beautiful day in the mountains yesterday and today will be a repeat performance. Look for sunny skies, light southwesterly winds, and high temps in the low 30's. Enjoy it while you can - clouds will move in tonight ahead of an approaching storm system that will begin affecting our area in the wee hours of Sunday morning. It's not a big hitter but 4"-6" will provide a nice refresh.
Snow depths range from 30" at Camp Jackson and Buckboard Flat (9000') to more than 4' of snow at North creek Pass (10,500'). Some sun and wind-exposed slopes have considerably less and there is still some grass poking out, but all said we're off to a good start down here.
Snow totals at Buckboard Flat (8924')
Snow totals at Camp Jackson (8858')
Wind, temperature, and humidity on Abajo Peak (11,000')
General Announcements
This forecast is from the U.S. Forest Service, which is solely responsible for its content. This forecast describes general avalanche conditions and local variations always occur.
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