New mountain snow increases backcountry avalanche risk

SALT LAKE CITY —  Monday’s forecast shows more rain and snow which means a higher avalanche risk in the backcountry.

Ski resorts are ramping up their efforts to keep the in-bounds areas safe for skiers and snowboarders by heading off avalanche trouble before it starts.

Keeping people safe in a resort comes down to ski patrol units and each person’s best judgment. Andria Huskinson with Solitude Ski Resort said their patrol units had been out ski-cutting.

“[The patrol cuts] an open face or something. Like, they just kind of traverse really slowly across it to see if they get like any cracking, any, any reaction out of the snow,” she said.

Additionally, Huskinson said while skiing, it is best to go with a friend and avoid ducking under any ropes. Avalanche danger is much lower in the inbound areas. 

“Stay in the open areas and just be aware of your surroundings and … know what’s around you.”

Avalanche risk

Two feet of snow fell on the backcountry between Friday and Saturday on top of weak, powdery snow from the early season. 

According to Craig Gordon with the Utah Avalanche Center, this is the amount and the type of snow that presents a danger. 

“Our foundation is very weak. It’s fragile, it’s sugary. And now we’re parking an aircraft carrier [new snow] on top of it.”

These conditions can trigger avalanches, according to Gordon.

Gordon said fresh snow gets people excited but it’s important to be cautious. 

“I know that we’re stoked for all the new snow. Mother Nature is not feeling our same emotion. So please get out [and] enjoy this great snow. [But] pump the brakes, tone down your objectives. And remember, there’s plenty of safe powder days yet to come this season,” said Gordon. 

Current avalanche conditions can be checked at the Utah Avalanche Center’s website.

Bryanna Willis is a reporter and anchor for KSL NewsRadio.

Related: Salt Lake hit a record high on Friday, but winter is on the way back