Avalanche forecast

Ogden

Issued Mar 24, 2023valid to Mar 25, 2023Utah Avalanche Center

Avalanche danger

Alpine
Treeline
Below treeline

Out of date — this forecast expired 3 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

The avalanche danger is HIGH in upper elevation terrain where natural wind-drifted and new snow slab avalanches are likely and human triggered avalanches are very likely. The danger is CONSIDERABLE in mid elevation terrain, and low-elevation slopes have a MODERATE avalanche danger where there has been less snow and lighter winds.

Assessing changing conditions within the new and wind-drifted snow could mean the difference between a great day in the mountains and a close call. Luckily, lower angle storm skiing will be great all day long!

Avalanche problems

Wind Slabs
N
NE
E
SE
S
SW
W
NW
Alpine
Treeline
Below treeline
Likelihood
Very Likely
Size
3
Winds will move snow around and continue to form drifts that may avalanche 1-2' deep and 100-150' wide. These slabs will be most pronounced on leeward-facing slopes. New snow will make it difficult to identify signs of wind-drifting.

CORNICES are not to be messed with. Limit your exposure to ridgelines near cornices, and slopes below cornices. A cornice fall could trigger a larger slab of wind-drifted snow below.
Storm Slabs
N
NE
E
SE
S
SW
W
NW
Alpine
Treeline
Below treeline
Likelihood
Likely
Size
3
Increased snowfall rates will raise your chance of triggering a soft slab avalanche 1-2' deep and failing on a density change in the top layers of the snowpack.

When the snowfall rates are greater than 1" per hour, avalanches will be easier to trigger, and more likely to act as a cohesive slab. Signs of instability like cracking, and collapsing mean it's time to let the new snow settle out before committing to steep terrain.

Special Announcement

We are in the process of finalizing a report about the March 9th avalanche fatality in the Uintas. Thank you for your patience, and we will publish the final report in coming days.

Thank you to everyone who donated to our Spring Campaign. We appreciate your support and look forward to creating new tools to help you stay safe in the backcountry.

Recent Activity

Yesterday we had 6 reported backcountry rider triggered avalanches within the new and wind-drifted snow.

Find all the recent observations HERE.

Snow and Weather

This morning, under overcast skies trailhead temperatures are in the mid-20' ˚F and the highest weather stations are in the teens ˚F. Winds are blowing from the southeast at the trailheads and west-southwest 25 gusting to 40MPH at the highest ridgelines. Overnight 3-4" of new snow fell. Storm totals range from 17-27" of snow with 1.5-3" of water weight. This storm has been a continued event and the size of the avalanches has only creeped up as the days have gone on. I would imagine that today's avalanches will be slightly bigger than yesterdays.

For today, we are looking at overcast skies with 8-12" of new snow forecasted. Temperatures will be 17-21 ˚F with winds blowing west-northwest 25 gusting to 40 MPH. Look for increasing winds and decreasing temperatures throughout the day as the storm makes its way across Northern Utah. There is a chance of lightning this afternoon.

The catch for today's snowfall rates is based on Lake Effect. The relatively warm surface (36-39 ˚F) of the Great Salt Lake and the cold air of the incoming storm can enhance snowfall as the warm air rises off the lake surface. Wind direction will control which way the fire hose gets pointed. I like to check the highest ridgeline winds and the Salt Lake City NWS radar to see how things are looking.

Our partners at the National Weather Service have issued a Winter Storm Warning in effect until noon on Saturday March 25.

Additional Info

Forecaster's Corner: What does Acceptable Risk even mean?

Through an avalanche accident earlier this winter, Drew has been able to put together a clear example of what he believes defines acceptable risk. Read more on this HERE.

General Announcements

CLICK HERE FOR MORE GENERAL INFO AND FAQ

This information does not apply to developed ski areas or highways where avalanche control is normally done. This forecast is from the U.S.D.A. Forest Service, which is solely responsible for its content. This forecast describes general avalanche conditions and local variations always occur.

Observations and Avalanches

Backcountry Emergency Procedures