Avalanche forecast

Skyline

Issued Dec 30, 2021valid to Dec 31, 2021Utah Avalanche Center

Avalanche danger

Alpine
Treeline
Below treeline

Out of date — this forecast expired 5 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Additional snow and strong wind last night is keeping the avalanche danger HIGH. We are expecting more snow and wind today and tonight. Avoid being on or below any steep slope especially on the north half of the compass.

THE AVALANCHE DANGER WILL REMAIN ELEVATED INTO THE WEEKEND. WITH NICER WEATHER IN STORE AND LOTS OF PEOPLE HEADING INTO THE BACKCOUNTRY, THIS IS A LIKELY SET UP FOR AN AVALANCHE ACCIDENT.

Avalanche problems

Persistent Slabs
N
NE
E
SE
S
SW
W
NW
Alpine
Treeline
Below treeline
Likelihood
Very Likely
Size
4
All you can do is continue to back off right now. We've had an unbelievable amount of snow in the last week. This has caused widespread natural slab avalanches breaking into weak sugary snow near the ground. Mid and upper elevation northwest, north and northeast facing slopes are the most suspect as these slopes are where the old weak snow from October is located. I've received more confirmation on recent avalanches. With last night's additional snow and strong wind to drift that snow, this just continues to overload any slopes that have not avalanched yet. The persistent weak layer of facets is getting clobbered right now and is angry. In the long run, that sugary snow will heal up and become stable. In the short term, don't mess with it.

For additional information, check out this well spoken and accurate field report from John Pikus. DETAILS HERE.

Snow and Weather

Current Conditions Wow. Last night's storm once again exceeded my expectations for snow amounts. 8 to 14 inches of snow fell overnight. The southwest wind has increased in speed and looks pretty strong over the high ridges. Temperatures are up into the upper teens. Riding conditions are excellent. Some people noted it's the best they've had in a few years.

Mountain Weather

We'll see cloudy skies, moderate to strong wind and periods of snow during the day today. The more serious snowfall will be late tonight through Friday. It is looking like another 8 to 14 inches wouldn't be out of the question. The wind should slow on Friday. The weekend is shaping up to be pretty nice with some clear but cold weather.