Bluebird Trend

TL;DR:

A high pressure system will keep us dry for the next few days, and as the ridge moves out of the area it will allow weak storm energy to enter the region this weekend with the possibility for light accumulation. For now enjoy the bluebird skiing while it lasts.

Photo Courtesy of Alta.com

Nowcast:

It is currently 10 degrees F at the base of Alta right now with a high of 20 F today. There are few high atmospheric clouds which means the sun will be strong and present most of the day making it feel warmer. Light winds form the Northwest are blowing at less than 10 mph in the valleys, and 20 mph on the ridges and peaks with gusts up to 30 mph. After a few really cold days it's nice to see the temperatures rise.

Short Term:

High pressure is west of Utah, but making its way towards us which will allow temperatures to warm in the next couple of days. Along with rising temperatures and stable conditions we will see inversions in the valley get worse over the next couple of days as well. With temperatures still well below freezing the aspects that receive the least amount of sun should retain soft powder conditions.

GFS 500 mb geopotential height anomaly, (tropicaltidbits.com)

Long Term:

Pictured above is the low pressure system that begins to enter the region on Friday and will lasts into Tuesday. Beginning on Friday we will see cloudy skies with a low chance of snow, and if any it will be the mountains that will receive a dusting. Sunday night through Tuesday has more likelihood for decent accumulation, but the amount is unknown right now as there isn't much agreeance between models. Enjoy the sun on your skin for the next few days, and pray for this system to have more favorable outcomes than we are seeing right now!

Backcountry comments:

If you will be traveling in the backcountry make sure you have the proper equipment and know before you go. For the whole avalanche forecast and all things avalanche head over to our friends at the Utah Avalanche Center. (https://utahavalanchecenter.org/)