While it certainly looks like Spring has sprung with temps in the 70's and 80's over Denver this weekend. Light snow is currently falling in Northern New England where resorts picked up 2-4 inches (Still snowing). There are are some big changes for next week.
A large trough will move ashore from the Pacific next week and impact several areas of the west. It appears that the areas favored for this event will be the Sierra and much of the Rockies. An impressive Atmospheric River will push significant moisture into the west beginning next week with perhaps 20-30 inches for the Sierra Ranges and 1-2 feet for most of the Wasatch and Tetons by Wednesday. Unseasonably cold air will accompany this storm so quality could be something you would expect for mid January (Blower). Don't put the boards away just yet! In the Sierra the system will start out warm and finish cold. Models have been hinting at a pretty significant storm. We are issuing this Epic Alert early, even though the models can change this far out.
Below: Total snowfall for the Sierra Range by Wednesday next week (Very impressive amounts are likely)
Below:Storm Track for the middle of next week.
Meanwhile in the Northwest, some light snow late this weekend will turn heavy by late next week. A system dropping in from northern Canada will usher in colder air and a very good storm system. BC will reap 1-2 feet from this event.
Breaking News! We heard today from some sources in Canada that the borders may temporarily open next weekend only for essential ski traffic. In fact, while Whistler and Revelstoke are closed, a private charity has erected a new rope tow that should allow you to summit within a 2 hour period. Ski at your own risk (The resorts are officially closed). The rope tow should allow access to most of the terrain at both resorts.
Below: New high speed rope tows being erected at Whistler and Revelstoke through a private charity that will run to the summits while the resorts are officially closed. This rope tow should run through May 15th.
Below: The new high speed rope tow will access both Whistler and Blackcomb from this peak until May 15th. Traversing is necessary from the top (High speed- 2 hour lift). Covid approved with 20 foot spacing.
For some reason, the models seem to really explode on April 1st. This might be the 15th year in a row that this has happened. Enjoy the powder everyone! See you at the Canadian Border for essential powder travel soon. Our last seasonal post will likely come at some point towards April 15th. Feel free to donate if you have lived a vicarious powder dream or chased pow this season.
Powderchaser Steve
