Avalanche — Northwestern San Juan Mountains, Colorado

2012-02-13 · Northwestern San Juan Mountains, Colorado

Event narrative

A snowboarder traveling alone was caught in an avalanche which initiated at the 10,300 foot level and carried the victim downhill 925 vertical feet. The victim had an avalanche beacon and was found buried under four feet of snow and debris. The avalanche occurred in an area south of the town of Telluride.

Wider weather episode

Early season snowfall and a dry start to January created a weak snow layer which was covered by seven feet of newer snow which accumulated from mid January to February 13th. This later snow formed a dense slab over the weak base and create favorable avalanche conditions.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 437369. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.