Snoqualmie Pass

Another mild drippy day shouldn’t create much in the way of avalanche danger for the Pass. Any slides would likely be confined to very steep rocky terrain. The biggest issue continues to be the general lack of snow and overabundance of obstacles, particularly at lower elevations.

With southerly winds aloft, this storm won’t favor the Pass. That may be a good thing since high snow levels at the onset of precipitation would mean rain for much of the zone. Instead, we should receive just a bit of water and gradually cooling temperatures. 

With rain in the forecast, wet loose slides are the most obvious issue. However, this isn’t that much water. So, wet loose slides shouldn’t be widespread or big enough to pose any real threat. Instead, you may find some wet, heavy snow and piles of rollerballs. If these pinwheels start to entrain snow and form teardrop-shaped debris, then wet loose avalanches are becoming more likely. 

If you venture way up high, you might find dry snow and wind-loaded pockets. If you see pillow-like drifts, especially below a cornice, that’s the spot that could produce a small isolated avalanche. Given the recent wind patterns, these slabs could be in some surprisingly odd locations. 

In both cases, it’s not the size of the avalanche that’s concerning but rather the potential for a rough and nasty ride. Don’t underestimate the consequences of even the tiniest avalanche. 

Observations this week generally said the same thing. First, travel conditions “exceeded expectations.” Even with evidence of recent drifting, blowing snow has been minimal to non-existent. The upper snowpack contains a series of crusts, recent dry snow, and weak sugary facets. The most pronounced of these layers are 12/25 (generally a thin ice lens) and 12/22 (multiple layers of facets/crusts). So far, these layers haven’t been a problem, but take them into account before jumping into very steep unsupported terrain. 

It’s been great to hear reports of “better than expected” travel. Smooth open areas where the surface softens continue to provide the best conditions. Maybe Saturday’s drizzle will provide the warmth to help. However, there are still a laundry list of variable surface conditions, obstacles to hit, and things to fall into. Take it slow and give yourself extra time to deal with these “low-tide” conditions.