East Slopes North

Thursday's weather will be cloudier and cooler than any day we've seen in a while. Challenging traveling on firm snow will be a consideration, so bring appropriate traction equipment. A much anticipated storm will bring a dramatic increase in avalanche danger for Friday and the weekend. 

After a solid overnight freeze, avalanches will be difficult to trigger on Thursday. More pertinent, will be firm snow surfaces and challenging travel conditions on a variety of sun-exposed and wind affected slopes. 

The big story is a storm starting Thursday night. This will bring the most significant change to avalanche (and travel) conditions that we've seen in nearly 3 weeks. We have high confidence that this snow will bury weak layers. What happens once the snow is on the ground is to be determined.

For now, we can track the locations of snow surfaces that could be problematic: A thick layer of near surface facets is widespread on many shaded and northerly slopes. This included shaded east and west aspects, and likely encompases all elevations that hold snow. Surface hoar exists in pockets in shaded meadows, drainages, and deep valleys. Other surfaces include melt forms and crusts on sunny slopes, and textured wind- affected snow at upper elevations.

Last week, an observer in the Harts Pass area found isolated areas of cold, dry, recycled powder (weak, sugary, faceted snow) on sheltered northern aspects. It's a good idea to track snow surfaces where you travel before the next storm arrives. We need your help to build a robust avalanche forecast. Submit an observation to let us know what you see.