Report From Powderchasers
Significant winter storm is going to provide significant snow to many areas of the West this week. Many spots including the Sierra, southern Oregon, south central Idaho, Wasatch and a good portion of Colorado will grab significant snowfall. “The Tetons are going to benefit from an Atmospheric River event from the Pacific that aims moisture under Southwest flow directly towards western Wyoming Wednesday night through Saturday.” Southwest flow will prevail Wednesday/Thursday before a cold front drops snow levels on Friday/Saturday.
“I am seeing a good chance of 2-3 feet at mountain top and perhaps 12-14 inches at lower elevations this week.”
Snow will get dense mid to late week (Rising temperatures and SW winds) and turn much colder by late Friday and Saturday (Lighter densities).
Details:
Snow showers will begin falling late Tuesday or Wednesday (light). Moderate snow will be falling Wednesday night into Thursday morning (3-6). There is a good chance of mixed precipitation in town and perhaps at the base area mid day Thursday. An uptick of moisture will occur on Thursday during the day (storm skiing).
Heavy dense snow will fall Thursday bringing decent accumulations for both first chair/tram and last bucket. Snow moderates somewhat Thursday night (Still under SW flow with additional accumulations). A strong cold front slams into the Tetons Friday morning. Snow will intensify early Friday (Lighter density) under North or NW flow with significant accumulations at all elevations with colder temperatures. Avalanche dangers will be rising rapidly in the backcountry with dense snow. Significant avalanche mitigation will be taking place at the ski areas especially Friday/Saturday so expect some delayed openings. Be very careful if venturing into the backcountry this week!
“It will puking lighter density POW on Friday or Saturday” with colder air.” This storm has the potential to land significant base building snow at lower elevations. “Total snowfall through Saturday will likely be in the 2-3 feet range.”
Snow showers will continue into Saturday morning before Bluebird hits us for a good portion of the weekend. High pressure might take hold next week.
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Enjoy the snow everyone as any deep events and significant terrain openings pre XMAS is still a bonus. “Its really happening”
Powderchaser Steve-Forecaster