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Forecast for the Uintas Area Mountains

Craig Gordon
Issued by Craig Gordon on
Friday morning, March 19, 2021
Today's avalanche hazard is pretty straightforward and easily managed with terrain choices which include aspect, elevation, and slope angle-
While the avalanche danger is generally LOW across the range, there are isolated places where you could trigger a dry snow avalanche that breaks deeper and wider than you might expect, especially in steep, rocky terrain above treeline in the wind zone. And here's something to consider... if you're getting into steep, technical terrain, even a small slide can knock you off your ride, potentially slam you into a tree, and throw a curve ball at your day.
In addition, the sun is high in the sky and steep, sunny slopes at all elevations will take on heat today and become moist. So you'll want to get off and out from under steep terrain, especially if the snow feels damp or manky.
Low
Moderate
Considerable
High
Extreme
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Weather and Snow
Nowcast-
Skies are clear, temperatures in the low to mid 20's, and southerly winds blow 20- 30 mph along the high peaks. Riding and turning conditions are quite good with cold, creamy snow found on high northerly slopes, supportable corn on mid and low elevation sunny slopes, and a mixed bag found in-between.
Forecast-
The warm before the storm... today we can expect sunny skies with temperatures soaring into the 40's. Southwest winds ramp up throughout the day and should blow into the 40's and 50's by days end.
Futurecast-
Clouds thicken overnight and winds shift to west as a little storm kicks off the weekend. Temperatures cool by the time your sipping on your morning beverage and snow develops shortly thereafter with 4"-6" expected by late in the afternoon. Snow showers linger into Sunday morning, a break Monday, and then a slightly stronger storm for late Monday/Tuesday.

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Click here and then on the "western Uinta" tab for western Uinta specific, weather station network.
Recent Avalanches
No significant avalanche activity to report

Observations, trip reports, and avalanches found here.
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Normal Caution
Type
Location
Likelihood
Size
Description
A couple things to implement in your travels today-
Dry snow-
Isolated to steep, leeward terrain in the wind zone, there might be a lingering wind drift or two, or shallow loose snow sluff that'll react to your additional weight. Not particularly widespread, but remember... if you're tagging steep, technical terrain, be aware that even a small slide could surprise you and possibly knock you off your feet and boss you around. So, the ticket to riding safely today is simply look for and avoid any fat, rounded piece of snow, especially if it sounds hollow like a drum.
Damp snow-
If the snow you're riding on becomes damp, manky, and unsupportable, simply change aspect and elevation and set your sights on colder snow.
Additional Information
I will update this forecast by 7:00 AM tomorrow, Saturday, March 20th.
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General Announcements
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 or [email protected]
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.