Avalanche Advisory
Advisory: Uintas Area Mountains Issued by Craig Gordon for Tuesday - February 23, 2016 - 4:00am
bottom line

While not widespread, pockets of MODERATE avalanche danger exist on steep, leeward slopes in the wind zone, at and above treeline. While it's becoming more the exception than the rule, any avalanche that breaks to weak, sugary snow near the ground, has the potential to break deeper and wider than you might expect.

Out of the wind the avalanche danger is generally LOW.




special announcement

Thursday 2/25 - Utah Adventure Journal presents adventure photographer Jim Harris at Snowbird's Wildflower Lounge. More Details Here.

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current conditions

In the wake of yesterday's little storm, 2"-3" of very light density snow fell and temperatures crashed into the single digits. Skies are beginning to clear, revealing a big, bright, brilliant moon. The fresh coat of white paint has greatly improved riding and turning conditions.

Trip reports and observations are found here.

recent activity

A few shallow, yet very manageable fresh drifts were noted along the leeward side of upper elevation ridges.

Recent avalanche observations are found here

See or trigger an avalanche? Shooting cracks? Hear a collapse? It's simple. Go here to fill out an observation.

Avalanche Problem 1
type aspect/elevation characteristics
LIKELIHOOD
LIKELY
UNLIKELY
SIZE
LARGE
SMALL
TREND
INCREASING DANGER
SAME
DECREASING DANGER
over the next 24 hours
description

Manageable in size and predictably breaking at or below your skis, board, or sled, fresh wind drifts along the leeward side of upper elevation ridges are today's main avalanche concern. If you're travels take you into steep, unforgiving terrain, remember- even a small slide can easily boss you around and once triggered, has the potential to quickly ruin your day.

weather

A few scattered snow showers linger over the region this morning, but in general high pressure is building and we should start to dry out as the day progresses. North and northeast winds blow in the teens and low 20's and temperatures rise into the mid 20's. Under clear skies, overnight lows dip into the single digits. A warming trend takes hold Wednesday through the end of the week, ushering in tranquil weather. There's a weak storm slated for the weekend, but nothing big in sight.

general announcements

Remember your information can save lives. If you see anything we should know about, please participate in the creation of our own community avalanche advisory by submitting snow and avalanche conditions.   You can call me directly at 801-231-2170, email [email protected], or email by clicking HERE If Craig is unavailable you can reach his partner Trent at 801-455-7239, email [email protected] 

This is a great time of year to schedule a free avalanche awareness presentation for your group or club. You can contact me at 801-231-2170 or email [email protected]. To register for the first in our series of on-the-snow sled specific classes you can register here.

The information in this advisory is from the US Forest Service which is solely responsible for its content. This advisory describes general avalanche conditions and local variations always occur.

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