Those planning to hit the slopes over the Thanksgiving weekend should stay vigilant of their surroundings.

With substantial snowfall accumulating in the high country, Colorado’s mountains are experiencing elevated and persistent avalanche risks. Backcountry enthusiasts—including skiers, snowboarders, snowshoers, and snowmobilers—are urged to exercise extreme caution, as avalanche warnings and watches have been issued across numerous mountain ranges.

Denver Gazette news partner and 9News meteorologist explains that the current avalanche risks stem from a series of weather events earlier this month. The massive snowstorm from Nov. 5-9 laid down significant early-season snow, which was followed by weeks of milder temperatures. This break allowed the snowpack to weaken and develop a layer of ice, creating a fragile foundation.

The heavy snowfall this week, combined with this unstable base, has made the snowpack highly avalanche prone. Bianchi noted, “The snow we’re getting on top of all that earlier snow is on a weak foundation.”

Earlier this week: Heavy snowfall with totals of 1–3+ feet in some areas will continue to increase avalanche risks. Avalanche danger remains at HIGH (4 of 5) in parts of the Northern, Central, and Western San Juan Mountains and CONSIDERABLE (3 of 5) elsewhere.

Thanksgiving: Conditions will remain dangerous, with CONSIDERABLE (3 of 5) avalanche risk persisting.

Friday–Sunday: As the snowpack adjusts to this rapid load, dangerous conditions will linger into the holiday weekend, when backcountry activity is expected to increase.

Avalanche conditions can be followed live on the Colorado Avalanche Information Center’s website and live map.

The CAIC advises to avoid backcountry terrain and stick to slopes with low avalanche risk, steering clear of those steeper than 30 degrees, to avoid avalanche danger. They advise to always carry proper avalanche safety gear, including a transceiver, probe, and shovel, and ensure you are proficient in using them. When in the backcountry, be sure to look out for warning signs of unstable snow, such as cracking, recent avalanches in the area, or audible collapsing sounds, and adjust your plans accordingly to prioritize safety, the agency says.

Bianchi reminds travelers that while avalanche danger will subside later this week, these conditions represent some of the most hazardous seen so far this season.

“If you’re going to the high country and you’re going to ski, we would strongly advise that you stay in bounds for both today and tomorrow,” he said.