Olympics

Expect dangerous conditions if you head into the backcountry on Monday. You could trigger a large slab above the rain/snow line or a wet avalanche where rain falls on recently dry snow. Avoid all slopes steeper than 35 degrees.

We're focused largely on the new rain, snow, and wind-loading at Hurricane Ridge. We're expecting 0.75" of water equivalent by the end of the day on Monday with the heaviest rain, snow, and wind Sunday night forming slabs you can trigger on Monday above the rain/snow line. Cold temperatures have preserved dry snow and in some cases low-density snow on most aspects. If rain falls on previously dry snow, it will rapidly destabilize slopes. Below the rain/snow line, expect wet, slushy snow that you can sink into up to your boot top. All elevations can easily produce avalanches on slopes steeper than 35. Dial back your terrain selection an extra notch during periods of moderate to heavy rain or snow.

On Saturday, ONP rangers found wind slabs formed Thursday showing cracking (signs of propagation). These older wind slabs may still be possible to trigger on Sunday, but our eyes are focused on new snow and wind. Saturday was cool and mostly dry with temperatures in the 20s and light winds.

Thursday night and Friday, Hurricane Ridge received 5-6” of new snow. In some locations, the recent snow sits over a thin breakable crust. Given the shallow nature of the soft snow, this could result in difficult travel conditions. 

We tracked several persistent layers in the snowpack over the past few weeks. Recent observations from professionals in the area indicate that while the mid-January and 2/ 7 layers remain intact, triggering an avalanche on either has become very unlikely. This snowpack information combined with a lack of recent avalanches for over 2 weeks led us to remove the persistent slab problem from our forecast. If you travel to more far-flung locations in the range, take time to dig and look for weak facets above prominent crusts 1ft and  3-4ft respectively (2/8 and mid-Jan) below the snow surface. 

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.