San Juan Mountains Weather Update: Sunday January 22, 2012–08:30

Red Mtn Pass and Molas/Coal Bank are closed for avalanche mitigation.  We have not been able to get updated snow totals but surely pushing past 15” to 16+” at the passes.   With a little clearing we are seeing widespread slab activity below treeline.  No vis above treeline. 

More later. sh

After a lull late overnight, heavy  snow has resumed on the passes.  Plows report poor visibility,  but the radar looks like some of the intensities may let up soon.  Periods of heavy, 2”/hr snowfall overnight and another surge this morning have caused small slides in the Gorge and near Red Mtn Pass.  Spot avalanche mitigation is planned for this morning.

Currently in Silverton:   Snowing 2”/hr;   HN24 – 14″;  Winds have eased here; Temp 22F.

Current on Passes:   At 0300 Molas & Coal Bank Snotels showing 12”-13”/1.5”

sh