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- Avalanche danger is increasing in the Wasatch and Ogden mountains due to fresh snow.
- Experts advise backcountry travelers to check gear and plan cautiously this weekend.
- The Utah Avalanche Center recommends resort skiing if travelers are unprepared for early-season conditions.
SALT LAKE CITY — Dense new snow is stacking on weak early-season layers, creating unstable conditions in the Wasatch and Ogden mountains.
The storm skiers and snowboarders have been waiting for is finally here — but it comes with a warning. Experts urge backcountry travelers to check their gear and plan cautiously.
After weeks of anticipation, Utah's mountains are finally blanketed in fresh snow. Resorts are buzzing with skiers and snowboarders, many smiling as they head down from the slopes.
But forecasters say this weekend's storm is creating unusual early-season conditions — and avalanche danger was expected to rise overnight Saturday. This combination creates unstable slabs that can easily break loose.
The Utah Avalanche Center warns that now is the time to check your beacon, shovel and probe — and make sure you know how to use them.
Current conditions
These are the conditions as of Friday.
- Danger Level: Considerable in mountain areas near Salt Lake and Ogden.
- Trend: Expected to increase as the storm continues through the weekend.
- Action: Check the latest forecast before heading out.
If you're not prepared for a warm, heavy storm, experts say it's a great weekend to stick to the resorts.
The Utah Avalanche Center issued the following statement:
"We've all gotten a little antsy wanting to recreate and get into the backcountry. This weekend's storm will create some unusual conditions for this early in the season, especially with this thin of a snowpack on certain slopes. So it's a good weekend to take out your gear — check your beacon, shovel, probe — make sure things are functioning. And if you're not prepared for a warm storm, it'll be a great time to go to the resorts."
Click here to view the latest avalanche forecast and safety resources.
Safety tips for backcountry travelers
- Stick to south-facing slopes and low-angle terrain.
- Always carry avalanche gear — beacon, shovel and a probe — and know how to use it.
- Avoid steep, wind-loaded slopes and terrain traps.
- Travel one at a time on suspect slopes and keep eyes on partners.
- If you're not prepared, choose resort skiing instead.
Before you go
- Check the avalanche forecast.
- Test your beacon and inspect gear.
- Share your route and carry communication tools.
- Be ready to turn back if conditions worsen.
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Jodi Reynosa
