2 replies to this topic

[B-Jay]

I was just wondering if all this snow which has been coming down so fast is in any way going to pose a danger of an avalanche in the Estes Park or surrounding areas. I know they close certain runs in ski areas that might be prone to avalanche if there is a huge amount of snow in a short period of time, but they may just be extra cautious due to insurance liabilities if something should happen.

The snow is really pretty, but I can't help but worry about the dangers that might be involved. I hope those of you in the middle of all this are all right.

B-Jay

[BigAl]

I was just wondering if all this snow which has been coming down so fast is in any way going to pose a danger of an avalanche in the Estes Park or surrounding areas. I know they close certain runs in ski areas that might be prone to avalanche if there is a huge amount of snow in a short period of time, but they may just be extra cautious due to insurance liabilities if something should happen.

The snow is really pretty, but I can't help but worry about the dangers that might be involved. I hope those of you in the middle of all this are all right.

B-Jay

Here's the official forecast from the CAIC.

The avalanche danger for the Front Range zone is HIGH on W-SW-S-SE aspects near and above treeline. Elsewhere, the danger is CONSIDERABLE. An avalanche watch is in effect through 10am Saturday. We will assess conditions later this morning - it is possible that the watch will be elevated to a warning.

There shouldn't be any danger to anyone unless they are out in the backcountry though.

[hahn23]

I was just wondering if all this snow which has been coming down so fast is in any way going to pose a danger of an avalanche in the Estes Park or surrounding areas. I know they close certain runs in ski areas that might be prone to avalanche if there is a huge amount of snow in a short period of time, but they may just be extra cautious due to insurance liabilities if something should happen.

The snow is really pretty, but I can't help but worry about the dangers that might be involved. I hope those of you in the middle of all this are all right.

B-Jay

My brief conversation with two backcountry skiers convinced me the snow is unstable in the high country. The couple (image below) indicated they had inadvertently triggered two avalanches during their Friday 04/17/09 outing above Bear Lake .... on the Dream Lake Chutes. While we have not had any wind to create cornices, we have an unusual amount of snow in a short period of time. It's the layering of the new, unstable snow on top of the older base which increases the avalanche danger. I have not heard anything official from the park service, but I just know they are aware. As of 8:30 am this morning, Saturday, 04/18/09, snow fall has resumed. At least 36" of snow on my property. Much more above 9500'.

At the Bear Lake Ranger Station.


Transport help to where they left their car.