Mountain weather update 10/16: On the horizon

There is one storm system on the horizon for the West early next week. Overall, it’s not major and the pattern doesn’t look as active as last week.

Forecast pressure pattern anomalies at about 18,000′ valid 10/18-19/2021. GFS interpretation.

Whistler/Blackcomb, BC will do the best with the jet stream positioned favorably. You’ll also notice some snowfall in my forecast below for Tahoe ski areas and Mammoth, CA (2-6″).

Snowfall forecast chart, Meteorologist Chris Tomer, 10/16/2021.

Wolf Creek ski area is officially open in Colorado – the first ski area to open. They are no longer the dark horse in this yearly race. This is the 2nd year in a row opening first. Wolf Creek is a magical place meteorologically speaking. More on that in a later post.

Opening day sunrise at Wolf Creek, 10/16/2021.

Arapahoe Basin opens tomorrow, Sunday 10/17/2021. I talked with a friend who works at Loveland Ski Area and they think it might take another 1-2 weeks for their opening.

8 thoughts on “Mountain weather update 10/16: On the horizon”

  1. Mike Skidmore

    Appreciate your passion here Chris.

    Thanks and look forward to seeing you on the mountain. -Mike

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