The avalanche danger is MODERATE on all upper elevation aspects where there are shallow soft or hard slabs of wind-drifted snow. The avalanche danger is also MODERATE On upper-elevation aspects facing northwest through north and east, where it remains possible to trigger an avalanche failing in a persistent weak layer buried 2-3 feet deep. Human-triggered avalanches are possible.
The west-northwest wind continues to be active, with plenty of low-density snow blowing around. Because of this, I would expect sensitive drifts of windblown snow across all upper elevations. These avalanches will be soft or hard slabs of wind-drifted snow that could be extra sensitive because they either formed over a slick sun crust (sunny side) or our weak and faceted snow surface (shady side).
A buried layer of faceted snow and depth hoar 2-4 feet deep exists at the mid and upper elevations on aspects facing northwest through east. The last reported avalanche failing on this layer was on January 5 on the Ant Knolls. But to our north, where there is a similar snowpack structure, avalanches failing on the PWL are reported almost daily.
I continue to avoid steep slopes on the shady side of the mountain (see locator rose). Yes, avalanches are becoming less likely on this layer, but the consequence remains deadly.
Unfortunetly, the Provo mountains were left out of the powder party. American Fork picked up 6 inches of new snow containing 0.21 inches of water. Over by Sundance Mountain 2-3 inches of new snow fell containing 0.09 inches of water.
Overnight, the wind picked up out of the west again and now blows at speeds of 10-15 mph with gusts into the 20s. Bring a puffy coat today, as mountain temperatures are in the single digits across the range. Let's not forget the wind chill out there right now, ranging from -10 to -26 °F.
Today, we will remain under a cold northwest flow, and at times, there will be snow flurries depending on where you are. Snowfall is not expected to exceed a few inches of low-density snow. The skies will be partly cloudy, and you can't rule out some sunshine in some locations. Mountain temperatures will remain chilly, with daytime highs ranging from 15-18 °F.
Join the UAC at Deer Valley on January 30th for the 2nd Annual Blizzard Ball Gala. The night will be full of fun including delicious cuisine, live music, an auction, and presentation by Bruce Tremper.
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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.
