Forecast for the Moab Area Mountains

Eric Trenbeath
Issued by Eric Trenbeath for
Wednesday, April 3, 2019
The avalanche danger is generally LOW. If snow totals come in on the higher end, we may see some new wind drifts developing along upper elevation ridge crests on slopes the face NW-N-E. Loose snow sluffs are also still a possibility on very steep slopes of around 40 degrees. Keep these problems in mind if tagging big, high lines in the La Sals is part of your game plan.
Low
Moderate
Considerable
High
Extreme
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Weather and Snow
Skies are cloudy, SW ridge top winds are blowing 15-20 mph, and 10,000' temps are in the high 20's. A weak storm system will produce snow showers later today with 1"-3" possible across most of the range. The highest elevations may see 3"-5". SW winds will continue to blow in the 15-20 mph range along ridge tops with some higher gusts.
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 on Monday 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.
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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
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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.