Colorado Avalanche Information Center
Daily avalanche forecasts from the Colorado Avalanche Information Center (CAIC) resumed Nov. 1, marking the start of statewide coverage.
The daily schedule underscores the CAIC’s mission to protect lives and infrastructure in Colorado’s mountains.
The CAIC issues daily backcountry avalanche forecasts for all mountain regions in the state. Daily updates begin on Friday at 4:30 p.m., providing timely information on avalanche conditions for anyone traveling, recreating or working in snow-covered terrain.
Forecasts use a five-level danger scale that ranges from low to extreme, showing the likelihood and potential size of avalanches.
“Avalanche forecasts are essential tools for safe travel in Colorado’s mountains,” said Ethan Greene, CAIC director. “We want everyone — from first-time snowshoers, skiers and snowmobilers to seasoned professionals — to start their day with the forecast. The most important part of planning any day in the backcountry is to start with good information on snow, weather and avalanche conditions.”
Avalanches kill more people in Colorado than any other natural hazard, with more than 100 incidents reported each year.
The CAIC also collaborates with the Colorado Department of Transportation to assess conditions and reduce the risk of avalanches to maintenance workers and the traveling public.
CAIC forecasters also issue a summary of the current weather forecast by 6 a.m. and 1 p.m. each day, covering the next 48 hours with emphasis on conditions that will have an immediate impact on avalanche danger.
Additionally, weather forecasts from the CAIC and National Weather Service are posted on the homepage and updated four times daily.
The CAIC encourages anyone heading into the mountains to check the avalanche forecast before every trip.
Forecasts are updated daily at colorado.gov/avalanche and on the CAIC’s mobile app.