SALT LAKE CITY — The Utah Avalanche Center has issued stark warnings for backcountry users as heavy snowfall and strong winds create "very dangerous" conditions expected to last through the weekend. Forecasters indicate the avalanche danger is anticipated to rise to "high" on many slopes across northern and central Utah, as well as southeast Idaho. The situation is particularly precarious, with new snow expected to overload weak snow layers beneath, increasing the likelihood of avalanches.
The warnings follow closely after a harrowing avalanche incident on Christmas Eve, when two brothers riding snowmobiles were caught up in the hazardous conditions. One of them was fully buried under two feet of snow before being located and rescued by his brother, who had the equipment necessary to find him.
According to Utah Avalanche Center forecaster Greg Gagne, the warning signifies the need for serious caution. “We have had, over the last six weeks, a really weak, unstable snowpack,” Gagne stated. “We just have been waiting for enough snow and enough wind to overload it.” This combination of factors is now creating conditions ripe for both natural and human-triggered avalanches.
“Avalanches may be triggered from hundreds of feet away, making for particularly tricky and dangerous conditions,” the Avalance Center warned. The current storm system is expected to deliver up to 30 inches of snow to high mountain areas by the weekend, exacerbated by wind gusts reaching up to 60 mph.
Adding to the precarious nature of the weather, the National Weather Service has issued winter storm warnings. While valley areas will experience accumulating snow, the higher elevations are seeing the most significant snowfall. Reports from the Bear River Mountains predict some of the heaviest snow accumulations.
The Avalanche Center has taken proactive measures, giving away batteries for avalanche beacons at local stores through early February, enhancing safety for backcountry enthusiasts. They recommend all individuals venturing out carry avalanche rescue gear, including beacons and shovels, and to understand how to use this equipment effectively.
“The best advice right now is to avoid backcountry terrain altogether,” said Craig Gordon, another forecaster with the Utah Avalanche Center. “This is going to be a great storm ... but it also means extremely dangerous avalanche conditions are being set up.”
With many people expected to travel to the mountains during this busy holiday season, it’s imperative to exercise caution. The Utah Avalanche Center emphasizes the importance of avoiding slopes steeper than 30 degrees and refraining from traveling alone. If necessary to traverse avalanche-prone areas, they advise crossing steep slopes one at a time, ensuring companions observe from safer vantage points.
The center regularly updates its forecasts every morning at 7 AM, providing necessary information for outdoor enthusiasts. Anyone planning to venture outdoors should stay informed with the latest forecasts, check conditions, and take heed of avalanche warnings.
Recreators are urged to explore areas within resort boundaries, as these regions typically receive avalanche mitigation. While outdoor activities are encouraged, safety should always be the top priority. “It doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the greatest snow on earth; you just got to practice a little patience,” Gordon stresses.
The Utah Avalanche Center remains vigilant, tracking changing conditions throughout the storm. Avalanche awareness and preparedness are key to preventing tragedies as backcountry users engage with Utah’s impressive winter landscapes.
For extensive anticipatory advice and safety guidelines, individuals should consult the Utah Avalanche Center’s website and keep checking for the most recent updates throughout the winter season.
