Utah Avalanche Center urges caution

Backcountry enthusiasts are being urged to use caution in Utah's mountains while enjoying the Presidents Day holiday.

While avalanche danger isn't rated as high, weakness on the slopes is persistent because of newly fallen snow, according to the Utah Avalanche Center. Experts are particularly concerned because the new snow could overload weaknesses near the ground, thereby producing a much larger and deadly avalanche.

Despite ongoing danger, the snow pack has been stabilizing since Saturday, according to the center.

Outdoor adventurers are encouraged to be aware of both natural and human-triggered avalanche events and should check utahavalanchecenter.com or call 888-999-4019. They can also check for road closures by calling the Utah Department of Transportation recording at 801-975-4838.