Fresh snow and wind raise avalanche danger in Colorado's central and southern mountains

Parts of Colorado's high country are seeing a spike in avalanche danger after a burst of spring snow and strong winds combined to create unstable conditions.

The Colorado Avalanche Information Center reports considerable (level 3 of 5) avalanche danger across portions of the Central and Southern Mountains. Since Wednesday, more than a foot of new snow has fallen in some areas, with gusty winds redistributing that snow into deeper, more dangerous drifts.

At higher elevations, those winds have built slabs on north through east-facing slopes, terrain where avalanches are now likely. 

"Anyone heading into the mountains Thursday is urged to carefully evaluate each slope," said Mike Cooperstein with the Colorado Avalanche Information Center. "Drifted snow, especially near ridgelines, in rocky terrain, and on cross-loaded slopes, should be avoided. Safer travel can be found on lower-angle terrain, generally slopes less than 30 degrees, particularly in areas sheltered from the wind."  

By Thursday night, colder air will move back in, helping stabilize some areas. However, the unsettled pattern continues with the Northern Mountains expected to pick up another 8 to 10 inches of light, dry snow by early Saturday.  

As sunshine and warmer temperatures return this weekend, conditions could become even more unpredictable. Warming temperatures may lead to loose avalanches during the afternoon hours, meaning conditions can change quickly throughout the day.

Backcountry users are reminded to stay alert, adjust plans as conditions evolve, and always check the latest avalanche forecasthttp://colorado.gov/avalanchebefore heading out.