East Slopes South

Sunday should bring mostly clear and calm weather. Avalanche conditions will be generally stable but use caution around wind effected snow at upper elevations and on sun-effected slopes at all elevations. Give cornices wide berth and navigate around steep lee slopes at upper elevations. Where you see evidence of sun effect on the snow surface, such as roller balls and pinwheels seek lower angle terrain. 

Sunshine and calm wind should be the norm in the south and eastern Cascades as a weather system inches toward the coast Sunday night. It's been several days since our last storm and no significant avalanche activity has been observed since Thanksgiving.

If you plan to travel to upper elevations, keep your eyes peeled for evidence of wind transported snow that could clue you into the possibility of lingering wind slabs. Any remaining wind slab issues will be most likely at the uppermost elevations especially on north and east-facing aspects which receive the most wind transport and the least sunshine. Look for firm and textured snow surfaces, cornice formation, or hollow sounding snow as evidence you could trigger a wind slab avalanche. Steer around corniced slopes and start zones steeper than 35 degrees where you see evidence of wind transported snow.

We are expecting light winds and sunshine on Sunday which should make for excellent travel conditions. However, light wind and above freezing temperatures are a reminder to keep the possibility of loose wet avalanches in your mind as you travel. Despite the relatively low angle of the November sun, pay attention to the snow surface as the day progresses. Natural and human triggered rollerballs and pinwheels are clear signs that the sun is weakening the snow surface. If you see these signs, avoid travel on slopes steeper than 35 degrees that are receiving direct sunshine.

So far this year, we've been blessed with excellent snow coverage for this time of year, but stay alert for early season hazards such as stumps and open creek holes.

Now is a great time to run through your safety equipment and make sure everything is in good working order. CLICK HERE for more information on early-season equipment checks. What did you see out in the field? SHARE YOUR OBSERVATIONS with NWAC and the backcountry community. Check out this BLOG POST and VIDEO TUTORIAL to find out more about why observations are so important and how you can view and share information on NWAC’s new public observations platform.

The Covid19 pandemic continues to be a major health and safety concern. Avoid unnecessary risks that could result in a rescue or stress medical resources. Follow local and state guidelines and wear a mask when appropriate. Maintain social distance and recreate responsibly and closer to home.