Avalanche forecast

Uintas

Utah Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

  • Alpine
  • Treeline
  • Below treeline
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Out of date — this forecast expired 6 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Two distinct avalanche problems exist today.

Dry snow avalanches-

In the wind zone at and above treeline, you'll find MODERATE avalanche danger. Human triggered avalanches are POSSIBLE on steep wind drifted slopes, especially those facing the north half of the compass. Any avalanche initiated has the possibility to break deeper and wider than you might expect and once triggered, can easily boss you around.

Wet snow avalanches-

All but the highest elevation north facing terrain takes on heat today. As temperatures rise, the danger of wet avalanches bumps to MODERATE and human triggered avalanches become possible on steep, sunny slopes. This problem is easy to manage and easy to avoid by simply getting off of and out from under steep sun-baked terrain, especially as the day wares on.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    2

    I found yesterday's snow predictably well-behaved with sustained, steep terrain producing long running surface sluffs, like in the image above. And while I think this is still the avalanche flavor of the day, I always need to remind myself that the Uinta's are big range, with big terrain, and the winds always blow. That said... if you're looking for an avalanche, I bet you can find one along the leeward side of upper elevation ridges or around terrain features like chutes and gullies. Today's avalanche hazard is easy to detect and easy to avoid. Simply look for and steer clear of fat, rounded slopes, especially if they feel or sound hollow like a drum. In addition, use all the tools available to help you make solid decisions on your terrain choices. Tweak little test slopes and road cuts similar in aspect, elevation, and slope angle to what you wanna ride and see how they're reacting before setting your sights on big terrain.

  • Loose Wet

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1

    It feels like yesterdays intermittent sun and cloud combo, combined with slow warming allowed Thursday's storm snow to slowly settle. And while most slopes took on some heat, the snowpack experienced a slow change, and that helped temper wet avalanche activity. I think we're dealing with a similar situation today, as clouds and sun play a game of cat-and-mouse with the surface snow. The good news is... wet avalanche activity is easy to avoid by staying ahead of the curve. If the snow you're riding on gets damp and manky, simply get off of and out from under steep, sun-baked slopes. In addition, think about your exit strategy, especially late in the day. Avoid terrain traps like gullies and road cuts where tree snapping, cement-like debris can stack up very deeply.

Special Announcement

From all of us... to all of you... HUGE THANKS!

The Avalanche Research Program at Simon Fraser University is conducting an online survey to examine how people use avalanche safety information. They want to hear from all backcountry users to understand how they process information provided in public avalanche forecasts. Anyone who completes the survey before May 15th will be entered to win cash prizes.

Uncertainty, Risk, & Decision Making: before, during, and after COVID-19 - Read this thought-provoking blog post about how we take risks by guest author Tom Diegel.

Recent Activity

Not particularly widespread, but steep, wind drifted slopes in the wind zone did experience a natural avalanche cycle during Thursday's storm.

To view additional trip reports and recent avalanche activity, simply click here.

Snow and Weather

Currently-

High clouds drifted into the region overnight, which kept temperatures rather warm, currently registering in the low to mid 20's. Crazy to think that's nearly 20 degrees colder than yesterday morning at this time! Winds are light and westerly, blowing 15-25 mph along the high peaks. Thursday's storm delivered a solid foot of snow across the range, but it took on heat yesterday and nearly all low and mid elevation terrain will have a crust. But don't lose hope... any day on the snow is better than a day spent organizing the garage, so set your sights on upper elevation north facing, wind sheltered slopes where you'll find ribbons of cold, settled snow.

For today-

While storminess churns away in central and southern Utah, clouds slide through the area during the day with a chance for scattered snow showers this afternoon. High temperatures climb into the low 40's and westerly winds remain reasonable, blowing 15-25 mph along the ridges.

Futurecast-

Additional Info

Sunday April 19th will be the last of the regularly scheduled Uinta forecasts.

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.

Skiing and riding at closed ski resorts - Some resorts allow access now, and some do not. Please check HERE for the latest info on ski area access.

New to the backcountry (including riding at closed resorts) - Watch the award-winning, 15 minute Know Before You Go video, or take the 5-part, free online-learning series.

General Announcements

The information in this forecast expires in 24 hours, but will be updated by 7:00 AM Sunday Apr. 19th.

This forecast is updated daily by 7:00 AM.

In the mean-time, if you see or trigger an avalanche or just wanna let me know what you're seeing you can reach me directly at 801-231-2170

The information in this forecast is from the US Forest Service which is solely responsible for its content.

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