Avalanche risk is high

Currently there is a high risk for avalanche, search and rescuers and police reported Friday, Feb. 13. Vermont generally isn’t prone to avalanche, but open slopes over 30 degrees should be avoided, experts explained. Places like Smuggler’s Notch for ice climbers can be potentially problematic, or steep slopes at or above tree line. The recent fresh snow on top of a very unstable layer that was created during a rain/freeze cycle earlier this winter, as well as the current cold temperatures, all contribute to this increased risk.