Colorado Avalanche Warning Issued as Early-Season Snow Creates Dangerous Backcountry Conditions
BOULDER, COLORADO – The Colorado Avalanche Information Center (CAIC) has issued a warning for outdoor enthusiasts after early-season snowstorms created unstable layers across high-altitude terrain, significantly increasing avalanche danger in parts of the state.
Officials say the recent snow has been piling unevenly across slopes in Rocky Mountain National Park, the Front Range, and several other backcountry zones, making conditions unpredictable and potentially hazardous for skiers, snowboarders, and snowshoers venturing off-trail.
“Conditions can change quickly this time of year,” CAIC said in a statement released Wednesday. “We rely on community reports — what you saw, where you went, and anything that stood out — to sharpen our forecasts.”
Early Snowstorms Creating Risky Layers
Meteorologists say that early-season snowfall, followed by brief warming periods, has resulted in weak base layers that may collapse under new snow loads — one of the most common causes of early winter avalanches.
CAIC experts note that these unstable snowpacks are particularly concerning because they form before a consistent snow base develops, often catching early backcountry users off guard.
“Even experienced backcountry travelers can be surprised by how quickly these weak layers fail,” CAIC forecasters said.
A photo shared by the center from Rocky Mountain National Park showed low visibility and snow-covered slopes, underscoring how deceptive early-season conditions can appear from afar.
Officials Request Public Reports to Aid Forecasting
CAIC is urging the public to share on-the-ground reports to help improve the accuracy of avalanche forecasting.
Outdoor users can submit observations, photos, or videos via the agency’s website or app, or by tagging @COAvalancheInfo on social media using the hashtag #COAvyObs. Anonymous submissions are also accepted.
“Your reports make a difference,” CAIC added. “They help us understand the snowpack evolution and issue more precise warnings to keep others safe.”
Caution Urged for Early-Season Adventurers
Experts recommend that backcountry visitors:
- Check avalanche forecasts before heading out.
- Avoid steep slopes and terrain traps.
- Carry proper safety gear, including a beacon, shovel, and probe.
- Travel with a partner and always share trip plans before departure.
The CAIC’s website offers daily updates on snow conditions, risk zones, and avalanche education resources for those planning to explore the mountains this week.
For more information or to share your snowpack observations, visit avalanche.state.co.us/contact.
Stay with SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com for continuing weather and safety updates from across the country.
