Abajos

The avalanche danger remains CONSIDERABLE on steep, upper elevation slopes that face NW-N-E, and deep and dangerous human triggered avalanches failing on a buried persistent weak layer are likely in these areas. Recent deposits of wind drifted snow have added additional stress in these areas. Avalanches can be triggered from a distance and break wider and farther than expected. A MODERATE avalanche danger exists at mid-elevations. Generally, LOW danger can be found on low elevation, south-facing terrain.

We are filled with grief to report four fatalities from a skier triggered avalanche in the Wasatch Mountains on Saturday. All were well known members of the backcountry community. Here is the preliminary report. In a little over a week, there have been 15 avalanche fatalities across the U.S. Conditions are dangerous in most regions and ours is no exception. Please stay conservative in your terrain choices.

Over the last 24 hours, westerly winds ranged from 15-20 mph and shifted to the SW overnight. Today, expect SW winds 15-25 mph with gusts to 35 mph. Skies will be mostly cloudy with high temps at 10,000' near 33 F. Zonal flow (westerly) overhead is delivering a weak system that will bring a chance for precipitation today and this evening. Radar indicates light precipitation bands over the La Sals as of this morning. Scattered rain and snow showers will result in the mountains receiving 1-2" of snow by tomorrow. Models suggest a series of systems beginning to impact the area starting Friday. Stay tuned.

NWS Weather Forecast.

Snow totals at Buckboard Flat (8924')

Snow totals at Camp Jackson (8858')

Snowpack Discussion

It's now been more than a week since our last significant snowfall and conditions are variable. Snow depths range from 2'-4' deep on northerly aspects while coverage on south-facing terrain remains quite thin with some slopes continuing to show bare ground. The sparse coverage makes conditions deceiving, but dangerous human triggered avalanches remain likely in steep, northerly facing slopes. In these areas, the underlying snow, however, is very weak and sugary and is providing an unstable base for slabs that have formed on top. Kevin Dressel was up on Wednesday and reported unstable conditions with reactive stability tests. See his report here.

I did a flyover Abajo mountains on Saturday:

South Peak in the Abajos. Note cross-loaded gully on easterly aspect on the right.

Southerly aspects of Abajo Peak. Note cross-loading of E and SE aspects and almost barren south-facing ridgelines.

Information on outdoor recreation - The State of Utah created this webpage with information about recreating on both state and federal public lands during the current health crisis.

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This forecast is from the U.S. Forest Service, which is solely responsible for its content. This forecast describes general avalanche conditions and local variations always occur.