East Slopes South

Another round of snow and west winds means you can still trigger a large wind slab avalanche at higher elevation lee slopes especially near the Cascade crest. Navigate around corniced slopes and features steeper than 35 degrees where you find wind deposited snow. At lower elevations, low snow and difficult travel remain the biggest hazard.

Friday night, strong west winds and 5-7inches of snow are expected at elevations above 4500'. Nearby White Pass picked up 7 inches of snow along with strong west wind Thursday. Storm and wind slabs have developed at higher elevations especially near the Cascade crest and will continue to grow into Saturday. Look for evidence of wind transported snow such as cornice formation, firm and textured snow, or pillow-like drifts. Cracking, collapsing, and whumphing sounds are also evidence of unstable snow. Where you see these signs, avoid lee slopes over 35 degrees. Navigate around cornices and steep start zones where wind deposited snow has accumulated. 

Expect shallow snow cover below 4000-4500' and bare ground particularly on low south-facing slopes. Typical early season hazards can be expected with open creeks, stumps, and rocks. 

See the media gallery below for recent pictures of Pinegrass ridge, Mt Aix, and Mt Darland areas taken from White Pass.

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.