Low snow doesn't mean no avalanche risk, Utah experts say

SALT LAKE CITY — While snow brings the chance to hit the slopes, avalanche experts encourage people to enjoy the mountains safely. They say lower snow totals this season can be misleading — just because there's less snow doesn't mean the risk has disappeared. Officials with the Utah Avalanche Center said they've already seen a few avalanches this season. Even with less snowpack than usual, forecasters warn this is no time to be complacent —  particularly along the ridge line near Park City, where weak snowpack makes slopes even more unstable. Lighter snow coverage does not eliminate avalanche risk, and even small slides can be dangerous. "Sometimes what people do is let their guard down and say, 'Well, it hasn't snowed all that much — how much trouble can I really get into?' Well, you can," said Greg Gagne, forecaster with the Utah Avalanche Center. "If there's snow on the ground, avalanches are possible." Hidden hazards beneath the snow — including rocks, bushes and uneven terrain — can increase the danger for anyone traveling in the backcountry. Up at the top of Big Cottonwood Canyon on Friday, there was snow on the ground and ice pellets falling, making conditions even more unpredictable. "The mountains don't care. An avalanche is an avalanche. It doesn't matter how much snow is on the ground," Gagne said.Gagne adds that anyone heading into the backcountry should carry essential gear — including a beacon, probe and shovel — and never travel alone. "If someone is caught in an avalanche and buried, the chances of survival are pretty low. That safety gear increases your chances of survival," Gagne said. The Utah Avalanche Center issues daily avalanche forecasts. You can check current conditions anytime at the Utah Avalanche Center's webpage.

Related:  Utah’s record-breaking December heat wave leaves snowplows parked

Related topics