Here Is Why Colorado Has Been Experiencing Record Amounts Of Avalanches This Year

If you live in the mountains or visit them often, you already know that avalanches are a real danger that can strike at nearly any moment. While the risk of snow racing down a mountainside has occurred as long as most of us can remember, 2019 has seen more than avalanches than ever before... and here is why:

As the snowy season is just kicking off in Colorado, one would think that we haven't experienced too many avalanches yet; however, this is not the case, as Colorado has already received nearly 250 reports in this 2019-2020 season.

Due to more snowfall than usual, avalanches are occurring now more than ever, with a whopping 28 reported within 24 hours earlier this month.

Aside from the above-average snowfall, what causes these catastrophic slides? Avalanches can be the result of several factors, including natural triggers (i.e. earthquake, wind, etc.) as well as man-made factors like skiing, snowmobiling, loud noises, and construction.

In addition to more avalanches, Colorado has seen more avalanche-related fatalities than ever before, with Colorado currently leading the country in deaths.

Since 1950, Colorado has received more than 287 reports of avalanche-related fatalities, with Alaska reporting 150 and Washington reporting 130.

According to the Colorado Avalanche Information Center, the United States sees an average of 27 deaths per year, more of 1/3 of which typically occur in Colorado alone.

How can you keep yourself and those you love safe from a dangerous snow slide? The CAIC recommends completing their free Know Before You Go avalanche awareness program, which teaches simple practices to protect yourself before, during, and after an avalanche.

For more information on Know Before You Go, please visit the Colorado Avalanche Information Center's website.

Don't have time to take the Know Before You Go avalanche awareness class before your next trip? Another way to stay safe is to come prepared with extra equipment (like probes and shovels) and - if you do get caught in a snow-slide - to get ready to "swim" through the snow and to try to grab a tree or something else sturdy on your way down.

Sadly, avalanches are not the only thing you have to worry about in the Centennial State, as these 11 Terrifying Things In Colorado That Can (And Just Might) Kill You.