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Forecast for the Abajos Area Mountains

Dave Garcia
Issued by Dave Garcia on
Friday morning, March 15, 2024
HEADS UP - THE AVALANCHE DANGER IS INCREASING as a powerful storm affects our region. The Abajo Mountains are in the direct path of this storm and could pick up 18-24" of new snow by Sunday. This storm is accompanied by strong winds. Heavy accumulating snow, and blowing and drifting snow will create dangerous avalanche conditions in the mountains this weekend. Avoid slopes steeper than 30 degrees. Stick to low-angle slopes if you are out enjoying the new snow this weekend.
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Weather and Snow
Weather
The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning for the La Sal and Abajo Mountains beginning at 12 PM Thursday and lasting through 6 AM Saturday. Heavy snow is expected above 7,000'. The Abajos will do better than the La Sals, and could pick up 18-24" inches of snow, with the La Sals picking up maybe a foot. But it's truly anyone's guess, as weather models continue to struggle with the evolution of this cut-off low.
Expect periods of heavy snowfall today, and highs in the mid-twenties. Winds will blow out of the SE at 20-25 MPH, with gusts up to 35 MPH possible. Clouds and lingering snow showers may persist through Sunday.
General Conditions
There is 7" of new snow at Buckboard Flat this morning. Heavy snowfall will continue throughout the day, greatly improving skiing and riding conditions. The avalanche danger will be on the rise throughout the day, and backcountry travelers need to be aware of changing conditions. Dangerous avalanche conditions are developing as heavy accumulating snow, and blowing and drifting snow create sensitive slabs. Natural avalanches are possible today, and human-triggered avalanches are likely. To stay safe today, avoid any slopes that are steeper than 30 degrees. You will want to stick to low-angle terrain for the duration of this storm.
NWS forecast for the Abajo Mountains.
Snow totals and temps at Buckboard Flat (8924')
Snow totals and temps at Camp Jackson (8858')
General Announcements
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.
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