Utah Avalanche Center warns of HIGH avalanche danger statewide through weekend

An impressive example of an avalanche crown occurred on a slope where the terrain immediately below the crown was only 27 degrees, failing on faceted and buried near-surface facets with a moderately hard slab. Just left of the main West Desolation Ridge on a shorter, steeper slope. Photo: W. Ambler // Utah Avalanche Center

UTAH — The Utah Avalanche Center is warning of dangerous and life-threatening avalanche conditions across all mountain ranges in Utah and southeastern Idaho following a week of heavy snowfall and strong winds.

Forecasters say the recent storms have overloaded widespread weak layers in the snowpack, creating a HIGH avalanche danger statewide. With clearer skies expected this weekend, officials anticipate increased backcountry use but warn that additional avalanche accidents are likely.

Two fatal avalanches in two days

The warning comes after two tragic avalanche fatalities this week.

On Feb. 18, a local snowmobiler was killed in Snake Creek near Midway. The following day, Feb. 19, a young girl died in an avalanche in Upper Big Cottonwood Canyon. Officials say the incidents have deeply impacted families and the broader mountain community. Several close calls and numerous avalanches have also been reported during the same storm cycle.

Dangerous conditions persist

According to UAC, unstable conditions will continue through the weekend. Natural avalanches are possible, and human-triggered avalanches are likely on slopes steeper than 30 degrees.

Forecasters warn that avalanches may be triggered remotely, from a distance, or even from below a slope, and they can break wider than expected and run long distances.

Anyone leaving ski area boundaries is entering uncontrolled backcountry terrain, where the same hazardous snowpack conditions exist.

Backcountry travel in avalanche terrain is not recommended at this time. The Avalanche Center advises recreationists to stay away from slopes steeper than 30 degrees.

For updated forecasts and safety information, visit the Utah Avalanche Center website.