Moab

Isolated, unstable wind drifts may exist on upper elevation northerly aspects. In these same areas, the underlying snow structure is very poor. The old snow has deteriorated into layers of weak, sugary, faceted snow on top of a slick, hard bed surface. An avalanche failing on one of these weak layers is currently unlikely, but not impossible. Future snow loads will increase the probability.

Overall low coverage will make this type of terrain difficult to access but if you find yourself in these areas, suspect slopes that have smooth, rounded deposits of wind drifted snow. Cracking in the snow surface is a sign of instability. Even a small avalanche triggered under these conditions can have serious and painful consequences.

The bottom line is that there isn't enough snow for skiing and riding off of snow-packed roads and grassy meadows, and low snow cover is the biggest hazard out there right now. Barely covered rocks and deadfall can quickly ruin your season.

24 Hour Snow 2" 72 Hour Snow 8" Base Depth in Gold Basin 20" Wind N 10-15 G25 Temp 5F

Prior to the last storm, snow cover was mostly limited to northerly facing, shady slopes above about 9500', and depths ranged from a few inches to 18" or more at the higher elevations. Most sun-exposed slopes were bare. Needless to say, coverage is quite thin and there still isn't enough snow for recreation beyond snowpacked roads.

Check the links below for the most current real-time weather info:

Storm totals at the Gold Basin Study Plot (10,000')

Wind, temperature, humidity on Pre Laurel Peak (11,700')

Snotel site near Geyser Pass Trailhead (9600').

NWS weather forecast

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.