Backcountry
Avalanche
Industry News
Utah had another great snowfall year in 2023/24 following the historic snowfall of the 2022-2023 season. Overall, the state saw 131% of the average snowfall setting a record for the snowiest two-year period in state history. From October 2022 to May 2024, Alta Ski Area reported an incredible 1,531 inches of snow—over 127 feet.
The Utah Avalanche Center (UAC) released its annual report, and the most notable details are listed below.
Season Overview
The snow started rolling in around mid-October before strong storms dropped a few feet of snow across the state in December. Weak layers and more snowfall in January led to 300 avalanches by month’s end before February storms finally buried the weak layers and brought some of the best and safest backcountry conditions. March had its typical storm cycles but were followed by a season-long propensity of warmer than normal temperatures. The snow water equivalent (SWE) peaked on April 2 at 18.8 inches. This was plenty of snow to keep backcountry enthusiasts happy, but not so much that nobody could get out of their driveways.
Points of Interest
- 902 avalanches reported. There were over 900 avalanches reported from the backcountry over the 150-day forecast season.
- Two avalanche fatalities. An unusually late-season accident on May 9 resulted in two fatalities. The first of the season in Utah.
- 1,890 public observations. The public submitted a generous amount of field observations that assisted forecasters and the rest of the backcountry community.
- 3 million website page views. The website is a vital source of information and was viewed over three million times.
The report also announced the appointment of Paige Pagnucco, who has worked for the UAC for the last 19 years, as Director of the Forest Service Utah Avalanche Center. She replaces Mark Staples, who successfully led the team for 9 seasons.
The report also offered highlights into different regions of the state, promoted its awareness program, emphasized its avalanche educational options, internship program, observation program, financial summary, and more. View the full report for all the details.
