Avalanche Incident Highlights Risks in Colorado Backcountry
Avalanche Incident Highlights Risks in Colorado Backcountry
US · Published Nov 5, 2026
• A skier was caught in a sizable avalanche in the San Juan Mountains, Colorado, on 3 November
• The incident, captured on video by professional skier Colter Hinchliffe, involved a wind slab carrying the individual down a couloir. Fortunately, the skier was unharmed. The Colorado Avalanche Information Center (CAIC) had recently resumed its daily mountain forecasts on 1 November, providing avalanche danger ratings and travel advice. Current conditions in much of Colorado are rated as 'low' avalanche danger, but some areas, including southwest Colorado, are marked as 'moderate'.

Impact & Risks

The incident underscores the risks of backcountry skiing, particularly in areas with heightened avalanche danger. While the skier involved was unharmed, the event serves as a reminder of the potential severity of such situations. Avalanche conditions can vary significantly across Colorado's mountainous terrain, and even 'moderate' danger levels can pose serious risks on specific features. Backcountry travellers are advised to remain vigilant and prepared for emergencies.

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