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Experts warn avalanches easily triggered as weather improves

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Posted at 7:30 PM, Feb 17, 2021
and last updated 2021-02-17 21:30:53-05

SALT LAKE CITY — Fresh powder left by an intense series of winter storms over the past seven days may be tempting, but experts warn that avalanches can be easily triggered because of a weak snowpack layer.

Read: High avalanche danger in Utah backcountry due to weak snowpack layer

The Utah Avalanche Center said in a press release that heavy snowfall and drifting from the storm has continued to overload the base, creating dangerous conditions.

Although experts say the brief break in storms will drop avalanche danger slightly, people still need to exercise caution by staying away from steep slopes.

Read: Busy backcountry ski season challenged by avalanche danger

The UAC recommends people steer clear of slopes steeper than 30 degrees over the next few days, even if they do have proper backcountry and avalanche safety gear.