In effect from Friday, Jan 23 2026 3:36 PM - Saturday, Jan 24 2026 6:00 AM
Issued by NWS Albuquerque NM
What:
Expect rapidly changing and increasing avalanche danger
overnight and through the weekend, when avalanche danger is
expected to reach HIGH. Up to 18 inches of snow is forecast
through Sunday morning.
Where:
Wheeler Peak Wilderness Area and Columbine Hondo
Wilderness above 9000 feet.
When:
In effect from 3 PM Friday to 6 AM Sunday. Greatest
avalanche risk will be from 6 AM Saturday to 6 AM Sunday.
Impacts:
Heavy snow combined with wind will likely create
widespread areas of unstable snow.
Instructions: Dangerous avalanche
conditions are expected to develop early on Saturday. Careful
snowpack evaluation, cautious route finding and conservative
decision-making are essential for travel in the backcountry this
weekend. This Avalanche Watch is scheduled to expire on Saturday
at 6 AM. Check back with the Taos Avalanche Center to see if the
Avalanche Watch is extended, or upgraded to an Avalanche
Warning.
Consult http://www.taosavalanchecenter.org or www.avalanche.org
for more detailed information.
Similar avalanche danger may exist at locations outside the
coverage area of this or any avalanche center.
