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Forecast for the Uintas Area Mountains

Craig Gordon
Issued by Craig Gordon on
Wednesday morning, April 15, 2020
Today's avalanche hazard is pretty straightforward and easily managed with terrain choices-
While the avalanche danger is generally LOW across the range, there are isolated places where you could trigger a fresh wind drift today. The usual suspects come to mind... steep, rocky terrain and leeward slopes 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 throw a curve ball at your day.
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.
Low
Moderate
Considerable
High
Extreme
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Special Announcements
From all of us... to all of you... HUGE THANKS!
The Avalanche Research Program at Simon Fraser University is conducting an online survey to examine how people use avalanche safety information. They want to hear from all backcountry users to understand how they process information provided in public avalanche forecasts. Anyone who completes the survey before May 15th will be entered to win cash prizes.
Uncertainty, Risk, & Decision Making: before, during, and after COVID-19 - Read this thought-provoking blog post about how we take risks by guest author Tom Diegel.
Weather and Snow
Currently-
Clouds slid into the region overnight and a warmer airmass moved over the area, bumping temperatures into the teens and mid 20's, almost 15 degrees warmer than at this time yesterday morning. It's a bit rugged along the ridges, where westerly winds blow in the 30's, gusting into the 50's and 60's along the high peaks. Riding and turning conditions are much improved as late weekend storms piled up nearly 6" of snow in the high country, which goes a long way to add a little cushion under your ride.
For today-
Look for mostly cloudy skies with a passing snow shower or two this morning. High temperatures climb into the low 30's and west-northwest winds blow 30-50 mph along the high peaks. Snow develops late this afternoon with a couple inches expected. A better shot materializes overnight into Thursday. Looks like 6"-8" is a good bet before things dry out on Friday.
Futurecast-
You came for the views, but...
... you should stay for the snow. Ted was in Upper Moffit Basin yesterday and reports a fat, white snowpack, and a locked up... stable... go-anywhere base. More on his travels found here.
Recent Avalanches
No significant avalanche activity to report.
To view additional trip reports and recent avalanche activity, simply click here.
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Avalanche Problem #1
Normal Caution
Type
Location
Likelihood
Size
Description
Recent winds formed shallow drifts on the leeward side of upper elevation ridges. With more wind and snow on tap for the next few days, you'll want to look for signs of unstable snow, like shooting cracks out in front of your skis, board, or sled. (Like in the image above)
A few considerations....
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. In addition, avoid terrain traps like steep road cuts or gullies where wet cement-like snow can stack up very deeply.
Additional Information
Sunday April 19th will be the last of the regularly scheduled Uinta forecasts.
Information on outdoor recreation - The State of Utah created this webpage with information about recreating on both state and federal public lands during the current health crisis.
Skiing and riding at closed ski resorts - Some resorts allow access now, and some do not. Please check HERE for the latest info on ski area access.
New to the backcountry (including riding at closed resorts) - Watch the award-winning, 15 minute Know Before You Go video, or take the 5-part, free online-learning series.
General Announcements
The information in this forecast expires in 24 hours, but will be updated by 7:00 AM Thursday Apr. 16th.
This forecast is updated daily by 7:00 AM.
In the mean-time, 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
The information in this forecast is from the US Forest Service which is solely responsible for its content.
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