As snow accumulates in the Utah mountains, expert encourages avalanche safety

SALT LAKE CITY — On Tuesday, Utah saw snow in the mountains, which has triggered excitement in skiers and snowboarders.

The Utah Avalanche Center says there are six to 20 inches of snow in the higher elevations right now. Center Director Paige Pagnucco says it’s too early to issue any avalanche warnings, but there are other concerns.

“As soon as it snows in Utah, people get powder fever and I don’t blame them. People start getting out into the mountains, gingerly,” she said. But, “this time of year, the biggest concerns are just buried rocks and tree stumps that people may not see.”

Those buried rocks and tree stumps could trigger small avalanches. 

Pagnucco says before people venture out into the backcountry, we need one of those big Utah storms to dump two feet of snow to create a solid base. In the meantime, she suggests getting gear ready. 

“I would suggest people, if they are backcountry riders, to get out their avalanche gear and check that and make sure it works, do a little practice with it.” 

And, continue to check the Utah Avalanche Center’s website for updates on conditions.

Read more: 

• Utah’s weather whiplash expected to continue through next week

• UHP urges drivers to slow down on bad weather days