Monday, December 20, 2010
Wow, what a snow storm! We are being pounded here in Steamboat Springs, and while the snow is a bit wet and heavy, hopefully it will set up as a great base for the rest of the season. Say goodbye to rocks and grass on the Ski Mountain!
While those of us in Steamboat may be happiest curling up by a warm fire and watching the snow fall tonight, if you live somewhere where the skies are clear, don’t forget to run outside! According to Yahoo, tonight is the first time in 372 years that the Winter Equinox and a total lunar eclipse will occur on the same day.
To top that amazing show off, supposidly the Ursids meteor shower will have a few left over shooting stars to dazzle you when the moon hides away. (I wish we had clear skies here!) Tonight is the last time to see a lunar eclipse from North America until 2014… those of us who are enjoying the snow storm may have to wait a few more years to enjoy such a sight.
Interestingly enough, tonights eclipse is going to turn the moon a gorgeous red color at 3:1a.m. EST, partly due to some smoke clouds lingering over earth from some volcanic erruptions. It should be pretty….
I can’t complain too much about missing the eclipse. After last year’s low snow season, I am keeping my fingers crossed that the snow keeps coming and doesn’t stop! This weekend was a great (although a little wet compared to the norm) ski weekend, and next weekend I can only imagine it is going to be spectacular. Be careful in the back country if you are out searching for powder; the avalanche danger is rated as high! According to the CAIC the danger is High in portions of the Steamboat zone above treeline on north through southeast aspects. Elsewhere the danger is Considerable. The danger is greatest in the Buffalo Pass area and portions of the Mount Zirkel Wilderness Area.
Stay safe, have fun! Happy Holidays!
