East Slopes South

The avalanche danger will rise Sunday afternoon as strong to extreme winds form fresh wind slabs well below ridgelines.  The avalanche danger will increase further Sunday evening, especially near the Cascade crest where more snowfall is expected.  

The East South zone experienced very mild temperatures and plenty of sunshine on Saturday.  High temperatures were in the low 50s at 6000'.  After a mild and cloudy start to Sunday, the recent warmth will come to a screeching halt as a winter-like storm rolls into the area during the afternoon hours.  Expect 2-5" of snow by sundown on Sunday with strong to extreme westerly winds and a rapid cool down that will quickly refreeze wet snow surfaces near and above treeline. 

Fresh wind slabs will likely form further downslope than usual and in unusual places due to chaotic loading patterns during the strongest winds.  Wherever you find freshly drifted and wind-stiffened snow, you may trigger a wind slab avalanche on open slopes steeper than 35 degrees.  While wind slabs should be shallow, they should be slightly deeper near the Cascade crest where more snowfall is expected.  Observers out in the Tieton River drainage on Saturday found low elevation and steep south facing slopes starting to melt out as the calendar approaches April. 

Cornices near the Cascade Crest are large and may be ready to fail.  Give them a wide berth as you travel along ridgelines and be aware of the overhead hazard if traveling on slopes below large cornices.

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.