RECREATION : Avalanche Warning in San Gabriel Mountains
Angeles National Forest officials have issued an avalanche warning for the San Gabriel Mountains, advising visitors in ski and play areas to use extreme care.
In the past few weeks, avalanches have occurred throughout the forest because of unusually heavy snow accumulation and changing weather conditions.
The biggest threat of avalanche is in areas of steep slopes with an accumulation of heavy, wet snow. Weather changes reduce the stability of the snowpack, resulting in snow cascading down slopes with little or no warning and at blinding speed. Also, a loud noise or small earth tremor can trigger an avalanche.
Visitors are advised to avoid steep slopes, tight chutes and gullies. Also, visitors should park well off the road and look for wide, flat areas for snow play.
For current conditions, call (818) 574-5200 or (909) 982-2829. For conditions at local ski areas, call Mt. Waterman, (818) 440-1041, or Kratka Ridge, (818) 583-9477.
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