We'll call it Level 2 or Moderate. We’re faced by the classic low probability with high consequence conundrum. The avalanche danger is level 1 or Low on most slopes in the region, meaning that avalanches are fairly unlikely, but possible. The problem is that any possible triggered persistent hard slab avalanches could be unmanageable and dangerous (more like pockets of level 3,) and it’s growing more difficult to isolate the problem to specific slopes. Heightened avalanche conditions exist, and solar warming may cause an increasing danger on some slopes. Use normal caution, continue to follow safe travel protocols, and evaluate the snow and terrain carefully, especially sunny and generally shallow areas.

We've been able to find some nice shallow powder conditions with a solid, supportable base. You still feel the solid crust from the MLK-Day weekend (1-16) on steep slopes and at lower elevations. Unless you're carrying your ice axe and crampons, you'll probably want to avoid some of the steep windward slopes that are scoured down to a hard and slippery ice-crust and present slide-for-life hazards, not to mention difficult riding. The Tony Grove Snotel at 8400' reported 3 inches of new snow yesterday, with 3/10ths of an inch of water. It's 16 degrees, and with 94 inches of total snow on the ground, the snow at the station contains 155% of normal water content for the date.... The wind sensor at the Campbell Scientific Logan Peak weather station is thickly coated by rime and ice, like all the trees at upper elevations. Mt. Ogden reports light to moderate west ridgetop winds.

We received reports of a handful of unintentional triggered persistent slab avalanches across the mountains of northern Utah in the past several days, with dangerous hard slabs releasing on buried surface hoar under the solid rime-crust. No significant avalanches have been reported from the Logan Area since the widespread natural cycle over the MLK-weekend .... Check our backcountry avalanche list.... HERE

I triggered two heart stopping audible collapses yesterday on a sunny mid-elevation slope, and as shallow slopes are warmed by the sun and the widespread crust continues to gradually degrade, dangerous triggered hard slabs remain possible..

We're headed into a high pressure system, and I expect building haze in the valley, with fair and warmer weather in the mountains. The high pressure will strengthen in the next several days and last through the weekend....

You can still sign up for our level 2 class with the USU Outdoor Recreation Program... The class is next weekend, starting on Thursday evening, January 27. Click HERE for more details...

You can view a photo summary of last year's avalanche activity in the Logan Area HERE

Join the friends of the Utah Avalanche Center in Logan on facebook. Click HERE

I will update this advisory in the mornings on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, and on other days if backcountry avalanche conditions warrant...

You have the opportunity to participate in the creation of our own community avalanche advisory by submitting avalanche and snow observations. You can also call us at 801-524-5304 or Toby at 435-757-7578, or email by clicking HERE

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This advisory is from the U.S.D.A. Forest Service, which is solely responsible for its content. This advisory describes general avalanche conditions and local variations always occur.