Forecast for the Moab Area Mountains

Eric Trenbeath
Issued by Eric Trenbeath for
Tuesday, April 2, 2019
The avalanche danger is generally LOW. If you are venturing into some of the higher, more extreme terrain, be on the lookout for isolated pockets of wind drifted snow on northerly aspects. Loose snow sluffs are also still a possibility on very steep slopes approaching 40 degrees. Keep these problems in mind if tagging big lines in the La Sals is part of your game plan.
Low
Moderate
Considerable
High
Extreme
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Weather and Snow
Clouds are spreading over the region ahead of a weak storm system that will begin to affect our area later tonight and into tomorrow. Snow amounts look meager at 2"-4". Today look for increasing clouds, light to moderate SW winds, and daytime high temps in the mid 30's. Sunday's 8"-10" improved conditions dramatically, and good turning and riding can still be found on sheltered northerly aspects. The sun was out in full force yesterday however, and affected slopes will be crusted over.
New snow totals in Gold Basin (10,000')
Snotel totals at the Geyser Pass Trailhead (9600')
Winds at 11,000 feet on Abajo Peak (11,330') about 45 miles south.
National Weather Service point forecast.
Recent Avalanches
I didn't see any new avalanches yesterday. Numerous loose, dry avalanches within the most recent storm snow were observed on Sunday.
For a list of avalanches this season go here.
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Avalanche Problem #1
Normal Caution
Type
Location
Likelihood
Size
Description
Low danger doesn't mean no danger, especially if you are beginning to set your sites on some of the bigger lines, and more extreme terrain that the La Sals have to offer. Continue to be on the lookout for isolated wind rolls on the leeward sides of high elevation ridge crests and terrain features. Loose snow sluffing on very steep, north facing slopes is also still a possibility. Though mostly shallow, and not very wide, a loose sluff could carry you over a cliff and ruin your day if not your life. Practice safe travel techniques, and carefully evaluate the snow before committing to extreme terrain.
General Announcements
Your information can save lives. If you see anything we should know about, please help us out by submitting snow and avalanche observations HERE. You can also call me at 801-647-8896, or send me an email: [email protected].
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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.