Utah Ground Snow Load Map

These ground snow load values represent 50-year ground snow load estimated value at a 2% probability of exceedance for the location given. The grid used in the map is 3350ft by 3350ft. Elevations for these grid cells were estimated by aggregating data from 100ft by 100ft USGS digital elevation models and may not coincide with the actual site elevation. These predictions are calculated using the process outlined in The Utah Snow Load Study.¹

Final predictions given are bounded at a lower limit for a minimum ground snow load of 21 psf to meet ASCE 7. Estimated values for snow loads at elevations significantly higher than all nearby stations lead to unreasonably high snow load estimates, therefore, the predictions in the map are not allowed to extend beyond the highest 50-year station ground snow load of 429 psf. Elevations over 9,000 ft are also considered less accurate due to the limited number of stations at these elevations. The results shown in this report have included a warning if the results have reached or exceeded the upper limit.

While great efforts have been made to ensure these predictions are as accurate as possible, designers must use expert judgement to ensure that such predictions are appropriate for their particular project. The SEAU and the authors cannot accept responsibility for prediction errors or any consequences resulting therefrom.

1 Bean, Brennan; Maguire, Marc; and Sun, Yan, "The Utah Snow Load Study" (2018). Civil and Environmental Engineering Faculty Publications. Paper 3589.