Early season avalanches are becoming more possible in steep backcountry terrain, especially on drifted upper elevation slopes with preexisting snow.
The National Weather Service has issued
Winter Weather Advisories for the mountains in Northern Utah and Southeast Idaho.
There is already some snow on upper elevation slopes this evening, with total snow readings of 9 inches at Tony Grove Lake Snotel (8400'), 10 inches in Bloomington Canyon (7900'), and 13 inches at USU Doc Daniel Snotel (8300'). At the 9700' CSI Logan Peak weather station increasing west-southwest winds are blowing 25 to 30 mph, with 40 mph gusts. 6 to 10 inches of snow is forecast to accumulate on upper elevation slopes in the Bear River Range tonight, with a bit more possible tomorrow.
Here are a few things to remember:
- Hitting rocks and stumps is a real danger. Don't end your season before it starts with an injury from hitting one of these obstacles.
- Avalanches are a real possibility. It doesn't matter if you are hiking, hunting, skiing, etc., be prepared with rescue gear and a partner. Many people have died during early season snow storms.
Weather and Snow