DEC urges hikers to use caution during avalanche-prone February & March

The Adirondack Almanack

Factuality

Ownership

DEC urges hikers to use caution during avalanche-prone February & March

February is the most avalanche-prone month, followed by March and January. Every time, hikers enter the backcountry in the winter, there’s a chance they may encounter an avalanche. But there are ways to minimize that risk. First, it’s important to understand what causes avalanches. Avalanches need 4 conditions to occur: A steep slope Snow cover A weak layer in the snow cover A trigger More than 80% of reported avalanches occur during or just aft…