Olympics

As the sun comes out on Wednesday, wet loose avalanches are possible on steep sunny slopes.  A small avalanche or cornice failure could awaken deeper instabilities.  Limit your exposure to large avalanche paths until we have more information about weak layers 2-3 feet down in the snowpack.

The weather and avalanche conditions in the Olympics on Tuesday were likely far more benign than their Cascadian neighbors.  At Hurricane Ridge, light snow showers occasionally gave way to sun breaks with light to moderate winds, and high temperatures in the upper 20s.  This should have contributed to gradual snowpack settlement following about 1 ft (30 cm) of snow since Friday.  There is a new crust (2/7) below the recent storm snow. 

Moving forward, avalanche concerns in the recent snow should be limited to lingering wind slabs below ridgelines or wet loose avalanches on steep sunny slopes.  Regarding wet loose avalanches,  if you find yourself sinking in deeper than your ankle in wet surface snow or see natural pinwheels or rollerballs releasing, it's time to change aspects or move to lower angle terrain. 

We're still concerned about a weak facet/crust combination about 2-3 feet below the snow surface.   There hasn't been an avalanche observed down to this layer in almost 2 weeks, but the structure remains in terrain with start zones at mid and high elevations.  Even though you are unlikely to see signs of instability, you should still be leery about stepping into large avalanche paths. Triggering a small avalanche near the surface or a cornice failure might be the right trigger to step down to this interface.  Give yourself an extra buffer by sticking to lower angle terrain or lower elevations. 

2020-21 Forecast Schedule: Avalanche danger ratings will be issued for the Olympics every Friday through Sunday and during mid-week holidays. During the week when the Hurricane Ridge road is closed, forecast information will be updated daily to include expected conditions and relevant travel advice under the No Rating label.

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.