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Experts warn of high avalanche danger

Posted at 9:04 PM, Dec 21, 2012
and last updated 2012-12-21 23:04:13-05

SALT LAKE CITY – The Utah Avalanche Center is issuing a special bulletin warning skiers of high avalanche danger.

The western Uintahs and Manti Skyline-area mountains have a weak underlying snowpack with a recent new snow slab added on top, creating dangerous conditions for backcountry skiers and snowboarders. Winds over the last few days have also increased the danger by drifting snow.

“The snowpack structure right now leads to deceptively tricky conditions. People heading into the mountains right now can trigger avalanches from a distance and on relatively low angle terrain,” said Craig Gordon with the Utah Avalanche Center.

Experts say they expect the danger to rise with additional snow storms through Christmas.

For the latest avalanche forecast, visit utahavalanchecenter.org.