East Slopes South

Avalanche conditions are generally safe. There is a small chance that you will encounter an isolated pocket of wind-loaded snow on a high-elevation, exposed slope. The bigger hazards to contend with are slippery surfaces and cold temperatures that will complicate rescue efforts should you fall and get hurt. Ensure you're carrying appropriate gear that you know how to use and note where consequential terrain is below you.

There is little change to the snowpack as we move into a new week. Monday morning will start out cold. Temperatures will jump up as the sun rises but are unlikely to reach above freezing. You might encounter some softening snow on slopes that see direct sunshine but increased cloud coverage in the afternoon will inhibit warming as well.

Soft powder (read: enjoyable sledding and skiing conditions!) can be found starting around 5000 ft on north-facing, open slopes. Be prepared for icey and crusty surfaces on the approach. Beyond your standard backcountry gear, consider carrying boot/ski crampons, whippets/ice axes, and extra layers to contend with the cold. The consequences of an uncontrolled fall on a steep slope could be substantial if you or your machine are carried into trees, rocks, or cliffs.

Any lingering wind slabs in steep, unsupported terrain will be sliding on a similarly slick melt-freeze crust buried about 6 inches deep. Use clues like rippled snow surfaces and cornices to identify the previous wind-loading pattern. Wind-loaded snow nearby will look comparatively smooth and rounded. Although these slabs are small, consider the same consequences as described above should you be caught and carried.

NWAC Forecasters observed surface hoar development as well as weakening snow just below surface crusts at lower elevations at Ahtanum Meadows on Saturday. While they did not get to higher elevations, it is safe to assume similar layers exist. Observations from the neighboring East Central zone point to kindred conditions as well. When new snow arrives and falls on top, these layers could become an issue. Be sure to pay close attention to the forecast when stormy skies return.

Help NWAC Forecasters reduce uncertainty by submitting an observation. Your obs are marvelously helpful even during periods of inactive weather and low avalanche hazard!