Storm set to bring very dangerous avalanche conditions

The Utah Avalanche Center (UAC) has issued an Avalanche Watch extending through the weekend and into next week, with a series of storms forecasted to bring 15–30 inches of snow and strong winds to area mountains through Monday.

“Heavy snowfall and drifting by strong winds will elevate backcountry avalanche danger over the next several days,” the UAC warns. “Very dangerous conditions and HIGH avalanche danger are expected to develop in many areas.”

Currently, the UAC reports MODERATE avalanche danger across most mid-elevation northerly facing slopes and upper-elevation southeast and west slopes. Avalanches 1–3 feet deep could be triggered on a persistent weak layer of faceted snow.

Backcountry travelers are advised to avoid steep terrain at mid and upper elevations. Always carry avalanche rescue equipment and ensure you know how to use it.

A recent snowpit test on the Park City ridgeline, shared by @utahavyjobs, highlighted the instability. The observer noted a large collapse on a northeast-facing slope and conducted pit tests. They reported that “most of the snowpack is weak and faceted, but the previous week of warm temperatures must have helped consolidate the upper pack enough to form a slab.” A column test failed after just two light taps. Closer to the ridgeline, the snowpack was more than two feet deep, with a harder slab about a foot thick. Both tests failed on 1.5mm facets, with one recording an ECTP5 result.

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