Forecast for the Uintas Area Mountains

Issued by Craig Gordon on
Tuesday morning, December 10, 2019
Tuesday morning, December 10, 2019
There's two distinct avalanche problems today with two distinct outcomes.
Unpredictable-
In the wind zone at upper elevations, MODERATE avalanche danger exists on steep slopes facing the north half of the compass, especially those that have an easterly component to their aspect. Human triggered avalanches are POSSIBLE, particularly on upper elevation slopes harboring weak, pre-existing snow. Remember- any avalanche that breaks to old snow near the ground may quickly get out of hand, resulting in a deep and dangerous slide.
More predictable-
Both new and old wind slabs may react to our additional weight and could break a little deeper and wider than you might expect. Along the leeward side of upper elevation ridges and around terrain features like chutes and gullies, you'll find a MODERATE avalanche danger. Human triggered avalanches breaking within recently formed wind drifts are possible.
Here's your exit strategy-
Wind sheltered low elevation terrain that held no old snow prior to the Thanksgiving storm generally offers LOW avalanche danger and human triggered avalanches are unlikely. South facing terrain with no old snow and big open meadows with no steep terrain above or adjacent to where you're riding are the ticket.

Low
Moderate
Considerable
High
Extreme
Learn how to read the forecast here