Olympics

At lower elevations, sunshine and increasing temperatures will increase the chances of small loose wet avalanches during the day. Move off steep sunny slopes as you feel the snow surface moisten and rollerballs start to come down.  Where you find wind-stiffened snow you likely can trigger a wind slab avalanche on similar terrain features.  

We're not quite sure what the landscape looks like after over 2" of water, mostly in liquid form, fell in the Hurricane Ridge area Sunday night through Monday night.   A rapid freeze took place Monday afternoon as a strong front passed through with a few inches of snow and decreasing winds Monday night.  Most likely a few inches of lower density snow sits on a firm and stout crust.  Water likely penetrated well into the upper snowpack as well before refreezing.  Wind slabs that have formed may be reactive to human triggering where they've bonded poorly to the most recently formed crust.  You can test the bond of the new snow to the crust on small test slopes. Sticking to wind-scoured ridgelines and to slopes less than 35 degrees will help you avoid the problem Wednesday.  

In less wind-affected areas and at lower elevations you may see loose wet avalanches release as the sun comes up and temperatures warm.  Most loose wet avalanches will be small and predictable. Move off sunny slopes before mid-day if the snow surface starts to moisten and you see natural pinwheels and rollerballs.  Think about the consequences of a small avalanche at lower elevations where early season hazards are most likely to be encountered.

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.