The CAIC uses a three-tiered system to present avalanche information to the public. The avalanche danger is the same in each tier, but the details and information increase with each level. Tier 1 information is presented on the homepage as "headline" information intended for novice users. It is the current avalanche problem in 250 words or less. The Tier 1 product also includes the avalanche danger rating and a recommended action statement. Tier 2 products are the traditional avalanche forecasts that include some data and an analysis of the current weather and avalanche conditions. With more room, we can go into much more detail and include useful data for more experienced users. Tier 3 products allow users to see much of our raw data and observations. Many of the Tier 3 products were developed as forecast tools, and provide insight into the forecasts for advanced users.
The Forecast Map on the homepage is the first tier and is intended for novice users. The goal is to provide simple, concrete information. It provides an at-a-glance view of the avalanche danger across the state, with each zone color coded to the appropriate danger. When a user mouses over one of the zones, a box with brief, headline-like information and travel suggestions appears. The box contains the avalanche danger for the zone, a brief description of the problem, travel recommendations, and an icon that graphically describes the primary avalanche problem. We collaborated with the Utah Avalanche Center and Sawtooth National Forest Avalanche Center to develop the icons. All three Centers used the icons in their forecasts.
Additional information can be displayed on the Forecast Map by choosing from options listed across the bottom. Geographic information can be added by checking Peaks, Passes, or County boundaries. Clicking on Avi Roses shows the Danger Rose for each zone. Checking Advanced Info changes the information displayed in the pop-up box. The Danger Rose, summary headline, and current weather forecast are displayed.
Clicking on any of the Zones on the Forecast Map will take you to the current Zone Forecast.
The Zone Forecasts are the second, more detailed tier (Tier 2) intended for intermediate and advanced users. The Zone Forecasts are the traditional avalanche forecast. The Advanced Info option on the Forecast Map displays details similar to the Zone Forecasts.
There are six elements to each forecast, grouped into two categories of Weather and Snowpack.
Forecasts begin several days in advance, as the forecaster collects data on snow,
weather and avalanche conditions in the backcountry.
In the office, we combine our observations with the many observations
we receive from the public and avalanche professionals.
We use all the observations to build a picture of the current snowpack. You can help us build a more complete picture by submitting your backcountry observations.
We use state of the art tools available through the National Weather Service to analyze the current and future weather pattern and produce a 36-hour mountain weather forecast. From the current state of the snowpack and the weather forecast, we estimate how the snowpack and avalanche danger will change over the next 36 hours.
