Scientists identify ‘speedy snowflake’ conditions that cause big dumps at Steamboat Resort

Scientists identify ‘speedy snowflake’ conditions that cause big dumps at Steamboat Resort

Scientists and graduate students working through Storm Peak Laboratory at the top of Steamboat Resort has examined 45 years of snowstorm data to identify what conditions cause the “big dump” days at the ski area. The “biggest powder days” happen when the snowflakes form during storms between minus-3 and 10 degrees Fahrenheit, said Gannet Hallar, Ph.D., director of Storm Peak Laboratory. The wind direction on these big snowfall days is primarily …