Avalanche hazard is Considerable at mid and upper elevations today as continued precipitation, warming temperatures, and strong winds impact the region. A significant amount of snow has accumulated this week, building storm slabs that may become increasingly reactive with additional heavy snowfall today. Moderate to strong winds will transport and deposit snow onto leeward aspects—predominantly northwesterly—forming potentially sensitive wind slabs. Dangerous avalanche conditions are possible. Careful snowpack evaluation, cautious route finding, and conservative decision-making are essential.
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An active weather pattern this week—bringing significant snowfall, wind, and brief periods of variable sunshine—has built a storm slab with multiple layers and notable density changes. Additional heavy snowfall today may increase reactivity within this storm slab.
Moderate to strong ESE winds over the past 48 hours have transported and deposited snow onto northwesterly aspects. Watch for loaded pockets of smooth, pillowed snow, which may form at lower elevations than typical start zones.
We have been in an active weather pattern since 3/14, with intermittent snowfall, including strong pulses of heavy precipitation and brief periods of sunshine. Forecast uncertainty surrounding these snow shower events—particularly in timing, duration, and total accumulation—has led to highly variable snowfall across Douglas Island. Between the 16th and 17th, a series of storm slab avalanches were reported. Snowpit observations have revealed multiple reactive layers and notable density changes within the recent storm snow. On Northwesterly aspects, wind slabs have actively been forming.
Over the past 24 hours, snowfall has become more consistent, accompanied by moderate to strong winds out of the East-Southeast. A Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect until 7 PM on 3/21. Rain and snow showers, with a high near 28°F, are expected up to around 2,400 feet this morning, transitioning to all snow by midday. Moderate Easterly winds with strong gusts potentially into the 50's. Temperatures will continue to warm throughout the day. Snow and winds will persist into tomorrow.
