Avalanche!

Planning a weekend trip to the Adirondacks?

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation has cautioned backcountry users in the Adirondacks of the danger of avalanches. Due to a significant amount of snow, increasing numbers of recreational enthusiasts are visiting the

High Peaks to snowshoe, ski or simply enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Sufficient snow has accumulated, creating conditions conducive to avalanches, and visitors should be aware of this danger

and take necessary precautions.

Avalanches happen in particular places under specific conditions, and there are almost always signs of the potential danger.

Avalanche danger increases during and immediately after major snowfalls, as well as during thaws, but an avalanche can occur in any situation where snow, slope and weather combine to create

hazardous conditions. Although the majority of avalanches in the United States occur in the western mountains, avalanches do occur in New York State and can have dire consequences.