CAIC warns of dangerous avalanche conditions during Thanksgiving week, with heavy snowfall across the state and increased holiday recreation

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“There will be an increased likelihood of natural and human-triggered avalanches that are large enough to seriously injure or kill a person this week,” said Greene.

CAIC issues avalanche danger ratings based on the North American Public Avalanche Danger Scale from LOW danger (Level 1) to EXTREME danger (Level 5). During certain avalanche conditions, CAIC also issues Avalanche Watches and Warnings when the avalanche hazard will be or is HIGH (Level 4) or EXTREME (Level 5).

Tuesday: Avalanche danger will increase to HIGH (4 of 5) in the West Elk Mountains and CONSIDERABLE (3 of 5) in many other areas.
Wednesday: Snowfall totals may reach three feet in areas like the Park Range, Flat Tops, and Elk Mountains, with two feet or more across most mountains Avalanche danger will likely reach HIGH (4 of 5) in much of the Northern and Central Mountains, and in the western San Juan mountains.
Thanksgiving: Avalanche conditions are expected to remain very dangerous (CONSIDERABLE (3 of 5)
Friday–Sunday: While the storm ends late Wednesday or early Thursday, dangerous avalanche conditions will continue as the snowpack adjusts to this rapid load. With clear skies, fresh snow, and the holiday weekend, backcountry activity will likely increase. Special Avalanche Advisories are anticipated.