Olympics

Very dangerous avalanche conditions may linger into the morning hours on Monday following a significant storm.   While the likelihood of natural avalanches will decrease Monday, you can trigger large and deadly avalanches on steep open slopes near and above treeline.   Choose travel routes that limit your exposure to large avalanche paths. 

The road closed to Hurricane Ridge Sunday morning due to whiteout conditions.  Storm totals and winds on Sunday are likely higher than what's showing on the weather station due to station siting/wind strength. 

Heavy snow Sunday evening will become more showery in nature overnight as the main frontal boundary pushes southeast.  The avalanche danger will likely peak tonight but will stay elevated through Monday with more snow and wind expected.  It's very likely you can trigger a wind slab avalanche on steep open slopes near and above treeline.  Winds may have also built stiffer slabs on open slopes below treeline.  Travel conservatively on Monday, and don't linger below terrain connected to large avalanche paths.  You'll need to reassess your understanding of the snowpack in the Hurricane Ridge area following this storm before engaging with more consequential terrain.  Expect fresh cornices along ridgelines and give them a wide berth. 

Southerly winds picked up on Saturday ahead of the main storm system and began to transport snow along ridgelines.  Observers noted a storm interface (preserved stellars) about 6" down that may become a failure point as the snowpack receives a prolonged loading event over the coming week.  Prior to this storm,  several cold storms continuously deposited snow in the Olympics almost daily since 12/21 (Winter Solstice).  Conditions were reported as...very nice.  Around 24-30” (60-75cm) of generally right-side-up storm snow currently rests on the Solstice crust in non-wind affected areas. 

2021-22 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.