Southwest wind continued to blow in the moderate speed category on Tuesday. Plumes could be seen off the high peaks and ridges in the morning. We experienced drifting snow in the 9000 to 10,000 foot range on various aspects. The sun heated many southerly facing slopes and there will be a crust on them this morning.

There was some minor avalanche activity on Tuesday. A UDOT snowblower clearing snow along SR 264 triggered a small wind slab from the snow being thrown from the blower onto a steep wind loaded slope. This demonstrates what type of avalanche activity you can expect again today along the steep upper leeward slopes.

There was also a small wet slide triggered by a skier in the lower elevations as the snow became damp later in the day. It was only 3" deep and 20 feet wide or so. New snow is most sensitive to heating the first time it gets heated after a storm. After it goes through a few melt freeze cycles, it is not as sensitive and triggering avalanches is less likely.

Photo: Richard Stum

We will publish full detailed advisories Saturday and Sunday mornings by 7am. We will also be publishing basic avalanche danger ratings & info during the week.

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