Lawinenlagebericht

West Slopes North

Northwest Avalanche Center
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Lawinengefahr

Tue
Hochgebirge
3 · Erheblich
Waldgrenze
3 · Erheblich
Unterhalb
3 · Erheblich
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Kernpunkte

Avalanche danger will increase throughout the day Monday as new snow accumulates. Expect avalanche activity during periods of heavy loading due to new snow and wind. Minimize your exposure to overhead hazard and avoid open slopes 35 degrees and steeper.

Lawinenprobleme

  • Storm Slabs

    • Hochgebirge
    • Waldgrenze
    • Unterhalb der Waldgrenze
    Wahrscheinlichkeit
    Likely
    Größe
    2

    Snowfall will continue over the next 24hrs with the bulk of precipitation expected during the day Monday (3000ft snow levels). Another 12-18in of new snow is forecast by late afternoon adding to the already impressive storm totals over the past week. You can trigger large avalanches within new snow above 4000ft on open slopes 35 degrees and steeper. The thickest and most reactive slabs will exist in wind loaded alpine terrain. Avalanches are most likely to involve the most recent 24hr snow but may break deeper on various storm layers from the past few days. While weaker snow above the crust (buried 4-5ft deep) is showing signs of healing, incoming snow each day continues to stress the snowpack and keep this layer on our radar. We are in the midst of a very active avalanche period with numerous reported avalanches each of the past several days. Monday will be another day to dial it back and seek out supported and lower-angled terrain. Be prepared to make observations as you travel and investigate the snowpack carefully. Use small slope tests and hand pits to observe the recent snow and determine which layers are most sensitive to triggers. 

    (12/16/20) Snowboarder triggered avalanche (D2) on a northwest aspect near 4500ft on Grouse Ridge in the Glacier Creek area. Crown height up to 18in. Photo Tristan Demers

Avalanche Discussion

Saturday night's storm came in cooler than expected with more snow than rain. Areas above 4000ft received 8-10in of new snow bringing snow totals over the past week to 4-5ft+ throughout the West North zone. Avalanche hazard peaked overnight Saturday during the highest precipitation rates. Several large natural and triggered avalanches (D2) were reported around the Mt. Baker Area by Sunday morning. Avalanches failed about 8-14in deep within the most recent storm and wind drifted snow. Small wet loose avalanches were reported as well in steep mid to lower elevation terrain. Storm snow settled quickly and fresh slabs appeared less reactive to triggers by afternoon. A thin surface crust also formed up to 4500ft due to moist storm snow followed by a cooling trend.

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.

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