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Forecast for the Uintas Area Mountains

Craig Gordon
Issued by Craig Gordon on
Tuesday morning, March 30, 2021
Today's avalanche hazard is pretty straight-forward and easily managed with terrain choices-
While the avalanche danger is generally LOW across the range, there are isolated places where you could trigger an old wind drift, especially in steep 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, slam you into a tree, and boss you around.
Also, the snowpack is locked in place and the danger of wet avalanches should remain in the LOW category. However, if the snow you're riding on becomes damp or unsupportable, simply switch to a cooler aspect.
A bigger hazard is an unexpected fall and subsequent slide for life on a steep, frozen slope.
Low
Moderate
Considerable
High
Extreme
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Weather and Snow
Nowcast-
Yesterday's dry cold front slid through the region bringing gusty winds, dust, and of course, much colder temperatures. This morning, skies are clear, the dust has literally settled, and temperatures register near zero at most of our automated weather stations. Winds are generally calm and northerly, blowing just 10-20 mph along the high peaks and that combo brings windchill factors to -20 degrees.... ouch. All but the most wind sheltered terrain harbors soft snow, otherwise rock hard snow is found elsewhere.
Forecast-
Look for sunny skies with temperatures slowly climbing out of the deep freeze and reaching into the 20's. Northwest winds remain reasonable and blow in the teens along the high ridges.
Futurecast-
High pressure builds the next couple of days and we should see dramatic warming by the weekend.
Looking for real-time temps, snow, or wind?
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 few considerations for today...
Dry snow avalanches-
Isolated to steep, leeward terrain in the wind zone, there might be a lingering wind drift or two that'll react to our additional weight. Not particularly widespread, but remember... if you're tagging steep, technical terrain, be aware that even a small slide could 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
Wet snow avalanches-
If your objectives include steep south facing slopes, slide-for-life conditions definitely exist this morning. And while the pack experienced a deep, solid refreeze, should the snow you're riding on become damp, manky, or unsupportable, simply switch to a cooler aspect or call it a day and move on to other activities.
Additional Information
I will update this forecast by 7:00 AM tomorrow, Wednesday, March 31st.
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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.