COLORADO- With all of the snow we’ve seen falling in Colorado over the last few weeks, it’s increasing the risk of avalanche danger in the mountains.
Which means if you’re traveling into the back country, you’ll want to take extra precautions.
Currently, a special avalanche advisory has been issued through Monday evening for ranges including the Sangre de Cristo mountains, and areas along the Front Range.
‘Think of it as each new storm creates a new layer, and that interface between the old layer and the new layer is what’s causing problems,’ said Shane Leva Store Manager, Mountain Chalet.
With the avalanche danger, it’s important to travel with others and make sure you have proper equipment, such as an avalanche beacon.
‘If someone gets buried in an avalanche you have about 15 minute to realistically save your partner, after that your odds drop off dramatically so time is literally of the essence, every second counts there,’ said Leva.
Leva adds people wanting to recreate in the mountains need to do their research before they leave.
There are numerous resources available if you plan on going to the mountains, including the Colorado Avalanche Information Center, The American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education, and several local guide groups are always available for information as well.
