File photo of skiers and riding the ski lift at Brighton Resort. Photo: Laura Seitz, Deseret News
ALTA, Utah — Several ski resorts in northern Utah shut down Tuesday — a rare step prompted by heavy snowfall and a high risk of avalanche.
Ski areas around Salt Lake City are at “extreme” risk for avalanches, according to the Utah Avalanche Center.
The National Weather Service issued a winter storm warning through early Wednesday morning. Utah forecasters expect the mountains to get pounded with new powder , adding a heavy layer to a weak and unstable base.
Some mountain areas could get up to 2 feet of new snow by the time the storm has passed. Current avalanche danger is high for all of Utah’s mountains; skiers and snowboarders are advised to stay away from the mountains.
Utah Department of Transportation officials closed state Route 210 in Little Cottonwood Canyon to perform avalanche prevention work. Officials reported the canyon will remain shut down for the remainder of Tuesday.
Additionally, the town of Alta ordered “interlodge” protocol for the day, which means residents and skiers must stay indoors at all times until the all clear is announced.
Brighton Ski Resort is open today in Big Cottonwood Canyon. However, all uphill runs remain closed. In addition, the resort canceled night skiing for Tuesday.
The Utah Avalanche Center reports that a backcountry avalanche alert issued by the National Weather Service is still in effect and will remain in effect until 6 p.m. MST Tuesday.