Storm Cycle Update

 Pretty good round of snow or should I say graupel overnight and this morning.  Accumulations in the mountains vary substantially and I'm not sure if Alta wiped their interval stake this morning or not as it looks like 4" on it, but the total snow depth is up 5 to 6 inches and the resort is reporting 8" as of 10 AM so I'll go with that.  

Gauge measured water total is about 1.2".  I'm hearing rumors that's high, but anyway you cut it, it appears to be a high-density graupelfest up there.  Sounds like a good day of skiing in my book.

Forecasts are still on for a colder storm tomorrow that will bring the Greatest Snow on Earth to both the mountains and the valleys.  Timing varies, with the HRRR bringing in a commuter special and the GFS a bit slower.  Strongly recommend that you check forecasts later today if you are commuting in the morning.  Quoting this morning's 5:23 AM issued Area Forecast Discussion from the NWS: 

"Locally higher snow rates will come with the front. Precise timing is lower confidence, with models ranging from roughly 5-11 a.m. for it to track through Salt Lake City. This will be capable of affecting valley travel Wednesday for some commutes, depending on timing."

I have more good news.  I am leaving for Austria on the 24th.  The models are already going for the Steenburgh effect to kick in, meaning snow when I'm out of town.  The Utah Snow Ensemble shows a break in a couple of days, but then things picking up again on the 24th.  

Coincidence?  I think not.