Avalanches in Colorado

According to the Colorado Avalanche Information Center (CAIC), avalanches have killed more people in Colorado than any other natural hazard since 1950, and Colorado accounts for one-third of all avalanche deaths in the United States. Most deaths are backcountry recreationists and they most commonly occur on the steep mountain slopes in Western Colorado between November and April. Recorded property damage is relatively low, with a total of $313,500 over the last 50 years, suggesting good recognition and avoidance of hazardous construction in known runout zones (Colorado Natural Hazards Mitigation Plan, 2013, p. 3-147). However many highways, roads, and railroads intersect with runout zones in Colorado and avalanches remain a constant threat to transportation safety. Road closures are common at various locations across the state due to avalanche threats, damages and cleanup, or mitigation activities. These closures may disrupt commerce and isolate communities with limited road access.