Stevens Pass

Stevens Pass might receive a couple of inches of low-density snow, but it won't significantly increase avalanche concerns. There is some potential for isolated loose snow avalanches or very small wind-drifted slabs at upper elevations. But avalanches would likely be inconsequential on all but the steepest slopes or those with terrain traps such as trees, rocks, or cliffs below. 

A storm system will bring the coldest temperatures we have seen in a while, but it's not accompanied by much moisture. Stevens Pass will likely see just 2-3" of snow, maybe we'll squeeze out more with the high snow-to-water ratios. It may increase the potential for small, dry loose avalanches in steep terrain. While these slides are more predictable than slabs, they can still push you around and cause long falls. If the sun comes out from the clouds, loose avalanches could be more wet than dry. Practice good terrain management and navigate to more moderate slopes if you observe long-running sluffs or rollerballs.  There is limited information from upper elevations, but there may be pockets of wind slabs that formed over weak snow. If any of these slabs exist, they may be lingering in very steep, rocky, or confined features at upper elevations. Use many smaller features to look for signs of cracking in wind-stiffened snow before committing to extreme terrain. 

There is 4-5" of recent storm snow over the 2/13 interface, which consists of weak faceted snow and surface hoar on shady slopes. On more sun-exposed terrain, the 2/13 is a melt-freeze crust. In either case, the new snow shows a poor bond at the 2/13 interface, but there just isn't enough snow over it to warrant widespread avalanche concerns.  We'll monitor this layer going forward, as it could become problematic with future storms. Depending on elevation, the snowpack below this most recent interface contains a variable number of melt-freeze crusts. Upper elevations have greater separation between crusts, with weak snow between them. Down around 8-12" is a thick layer of refrozen melt forms from the January Drought and rain in early February. 

There are still significant travel hazards out in the mountains, particularly in lower elevations and forested areas. Open creeks, bare ground, and exposed rocks are all things you might have to contend with to get into the more pleasant conditions above about 5500ft.