Following double-digit snowfall totals in Colorado’s mountainous region this weekend, avalanche risk has risen, according to the Colorado Avalanche Information Center (CAIC).

Since December 8, the CAIC has received 18 reports of avalanches.

The area around Telluride and the Rio Grande National Forest, as well as Breckenridge and some areas on the western slope are at danger level two of five, which is moderate, and consists of heightened avalanche conditions on specific terrain features.

Also according to the CAIC, areas in the White River National Forest and Gunnison National Forest, as well as near Steamboat Springs, Boulder, and Fort Collins are at danger level three. This means that there is a considerable risk of avalanches in these regions, that there are dangerous avalanche conditions.

The CAIC states that you should check the avalanche forecast before heading into the mountains. The CAIC also explains that in considerable avalanche danger conditions, you should carefully evaluate the snowpack and be cautious in route-finding.

Always check the avalanche risk forecast prior to leaving the trailhead on the Colorado Avalanche Information Center website. Bringing along all essential avalanche safety gear and knowing how to use it properly is also crucial for those entering the backcountry during winter months of the year.