Mirror Lake Highway is currently open, but limited plowing could mean the road is a complete mess. Whatever the case, don't let this easy access to the western Uintas lull you into a false sense of security just because you can see your car from a nearby ridge or mountain top. The Uinta snowpack is notoriously sketchy and much weaker than you might find in the central Wasatch. If you're getting into steep terrain, be prepared for your own self rescue- that means wear and know how to use an avalanche beacon, shovel and probe. Above all… think about the consequences of triggering an avalanche.

In the wind zone a Level 3 (Considerable) avalanche danger exists on steep, upper elevation slopes facing the north half of the compass. Human triggered avalanches are probable, particularly on slopes with recent deposits of wind drifted snow.

A Level 1 (Low) avalanche danger will be found out of the wind, on southerly facing terrain, and on slopes that had no snow prior to this weekend’s storm.

Yesterday’s storm system was good to the eastern front, laying down about a foot of medium density new snow at the upper elevations. In addition to the new snow, winds have been the big headline story. On Saturday they gusted into the 60’s and 70’s before becoming more reasonable early this morning, backing off into the 30’s and 40’s. Currently, light snow is falling and temperatures are in the mid to upper 20’s.

The mountains are white from far… but far from white. Riding and turning conditions are thin and limited to all but the highest north facing slopes. Grassy meadows and rock free roads are your best bet for early season turns or for a quick spin on the new sled. Click here to check out Ted's great observation from the Whitney area on Wednesday.

No new avalanches to report.

Click here for recent observations from around the region.

Another good shot of snow is materializing this morning with an additional 4”-8” expected. Westerly winds will continue to blow 30-40 mph with gusts in the 50’s and 60’s along the high ridges. High temperatures will be in the mid 20’s with overnight lows in the mid teens. A cool and moist Northwest flow prevails across the mountains into mid week. The next chance of light snow fall will be with a cold front Monday night and Tuesday.

The information in this advisory expires 24 hours after the date and time posted, but will be updated by 7:00 AM Wednesday, November 16th.

If you’re getting out and about and trigger an avalanche or see anything interesting please drop me an email at craig@utahavalanchecenter.org or call 801-231-2170

Also, now is a great time to schedule one of our free avalanche awareness presentations for your group or club. Email or call me and we’ll get you booked before things get too crazy.