East Slopes South

It will be possible to trigger small avalanches Monday. Steer around steep wind drifted lee slopes at upper elevations and use caution around cliffs and creeks at lower elevations where warm temperatures and rain will make loose wet avalanches possible.

Steer around steep open slopes near and especially above treeline where recent winds will have created deeper drifts near the Cascade crest.  It's here you may trigger a slab avalanche within the recent snowfall.  Cornices may easily break off and trigger avalanches on the slopes below.  Give them a wide berth if traveling along ridgelines. Shallow pockets of fresh wind slabs formed Friday and will remain sensitive Saturday.

Rising temperatures and rain at some elevations will make it possible to trigger loose wet avalanches. If you notice temperatures above freezing, wet snow surfaces, roller balls beginning to form, or trees dripping, you may be able to trigger loose wet avalanches. This will be most likely at middle and lower elevations and on steep slopes. If you see evidence of weakening snow surfaces, avoid slopes steeper than 35 degrees and unsupported slopes such as those above cliffs and creeks.

In the nearby Wenatchee mountains,  large and deadly avalanches are likely to be triggered by a backcountry traveler.  In parts of the East South that are at higher elevations and further east of the Crest (areas with a shallower and colder snowpack), you may find similar conditions. Here the worry is that you can trigger an avalanche that releases down to old weak snow near the ground or a crust formed in early December.  This setup is especially dangerous because up to recently, many areas barely had enough snow to warrant avalanche concerns. 

A warm and wet storm is approaching the Northwest Monday night. Avalanche danger will rise dramatically Tuesday.

During the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, continue to follow the latest guidance from local, state, and federal health officials. Avoid unnecessary risks that could impact first responders and stress medical resources.  Wear a mask when appropriate, practice social distancing, and consider recreating closer to home.