Officials warn Utahns about potential avalanches this weekend

Nov 17, 2017, 6:27 PM | Updated: 6:46 pm

...

WASATCH FRONT – The snow totals may not be anything to write home about.  Meteorologists say there was perhaps a foot in the Cottonwoods.  However, that doesn’t mean people going into the mountains this weekend shouldn’t worry about avalanches.

There are a couple of factors that officials are worried about for this weekend.  One, the winds.  Two, “This new snow, because it was kind of warm when it started, is fairly dense.  That makes a slab on top of the old snow, which is a weak layer. Now, we have the recipe for an avalanche if you’re on a steep slope,” according to Utah Avalanche Center Director Mark Staples.  One of the best preventative measures someone could take this weekend is fairly easy.  “The simple answer is to just make sure you’re on a slope less than 30 degrees,” Staples says.

Staples believes there doesn’t have to be a lot of snow on the mountains for the slides to be dangerous.  He says “It’s even worse now because the snowpack is so thin.  That avalanche is going to run you down the slope.  It could be 30-40 miles an hour, instantly, and it’s going to carry you over the rocks and the stumps,” adding that even if there isn’t enough snow to bury you, there is still enough to hurt you.

He also says it’s important that people remember many of the ski resorts are not open yet, so, if an avalanche happens, you’re on your own.  “Even if you’re hiking under a chairlift, that snowpack is just like it is in the backcountry.”

The basic gear for avalanches is essential, like shovels, probes, and beacons.  However, Staples says the most important thing anyone could take with them to the mountains is a partner.  The gear can help crews find your body, but the partner can help save your life.

We want to hear from you.

Have a story idea or tip? Send it to the KSL NewsRadio team here.

Today’s Top Stories

The OLRGC released an analysis of the expected topics to be discussed during a special session of t...

Simone Seikaly

Extending state flooding emergency, firearm restrictions, among topics for Utah special session

The OLRGC released an analysis of the expected topics to be discussed during a special session of the legislature.

11 months ago

A video recorded by Facebook user Larry Jacquez shows the police response following the shooting in...

Jamiel Lynch, CNN     

At least 3 people killed and 2 officers wounded in a shooting in Farmington, New Mexico, police say

Multiple people were shot and at least three killed in a shooting in Farmington, New Mexico, police said in a Facebook post.

11 months ago

A new release from Intermountain Healthcare shows that younger adults are becoming more susceptible...

Waverly Golden

Younger adults are becoming more susceptible to strokes

A new release from Intermountain Healthcare shows that younger adults are becoming more susceptible to stroke.

11 months ago

If you plan to camp over Memorial Day Weekend, you may want to begin the planning process now....

Allessandra Harris

Camping over Memorial Day Weekend? Plan ahead

If you plan to camp over Memorial Day Weekend, you may want to begin the planning process now.

11 months ago

slcpd on the scene of the deaths...

Josh Ellis

Police: Teen killed by father in murder-suicide in SLC office building

Police responded to the office complex near 3000 S. Highland Drive on Saturday after emergency responders received a call from a community member who reported finding a body.

11 months ago

Melissa Coleman crouches next to her husband, , Brad Coleman, of North Ogden, who sits in a wheelch...

Jenny Carpenter, KSL.com

Young stroke victim survives with quick, lifesaving treatment in northern Utah

After a 36-year-old man had a stroke, he and his wife say to be aware of the signs of stroke and that young people are also at risk.

11 months ago

Sponsored Articles

close up of rose marvel saliva blooms in purple...

Shannon Cavalero

Drought Tolerant Perennials for Utah

The best drought tolerant plants for Utah can handle high elevations, alkaline soils, excessive exposure to wind, and use of secondary water.

Group of cheerful team members high fiving each other...

Visit Bear Lake

How To Plan a Business Retreat in Bear Lake This Spring

Are you wondering how to plan a business retreat this spring? Read our sample itinerary to plan a team getaway to Bear Lake.

Cheerful young woman writing an assignment while sitting at desk between two classmates during clas...

BYU EMBA at the Marriott School of Business

Hear it Firsthand: 6 Students Share Their Executive MBA Experience at BYU’s Marriott School of Business

The Executive MBA program at BYU offers great opportunities. Hear experiences straight from students enrolled in the program.

Skier being towed by a rider on a horse. Skijoring....

Bear Lake Convention and Visitors Bureau

Looking for a New Winter Activity? Try Skijoring in Bear Lake

Skijoring is when someone on skis is pulled by a horse, dog, animal, or motor vehicle. The driver leads the skiers through an obstacle course over jumps, hoops, and gates.

Banner with Cervical Cancer Awareness Realistic Ribbon...

Intermountain Health

Five Common Causes of Cervical Cancer – and What You Can Do to Lower Your Risk

January is National Cervical Cancer Awareness month and cancer experts at Intermountain Health are working to educate women about cervical cancer.

Kid holding a cisco fish at winterfest...

Bear Lake Convention and Visitors Bureau

Get Ready for Fun at the 2023 Bear Lake Monster Winterfest

The Bear Lake Monster Winterfest is an annual weekend event jam-packed full of fun activities the whole family can enjoy.

Officials warn Utahns about potential avalanches this weekend