East Slopes North

You can trigger avalanches where gusty winds build stiff drifted slabs. Actively blowing snow, shooting cracks, and recent avalanches are signs of the danger. Steer around steep slopes below ridgelines, confined gullies, and the base of cliffs where these drifts are most likely to form.

Expect another couple of inches of snow with clearing, cold temperatures, and light to moderate winds on Saturday. You may see a few small, loose avalanches on steep slopes, especially in sun-exposed terrain. On Friday, observers reported 3-4" of new snow with plenty of "cold smoke" available for wind transport at middle and upper elevations. They reported some blowing snow at upper elevations. 

Backcountry travelers reported extensive wind-affected snow in the Upper Chewuch and Twisp River drainages throughout the week. Wind slab and storm slab avalanches were reported from Wednesday and Thursday on both leeward slopes and in more wind-sheltered terrain. On the 24th, observers also reported a freezing-rain crust below 4700ft, which is now buried by recent snow.

Following severe weather earlier in the month, access to Washington Pass and Highway 20 west of Early Winters is currently closed due to mudslides and road crews working in the area. With limited access to the mountains, we have less information about the snowpack than usual. Travel with extra safety margins, make your own observations, and ease into new terrain slowly to account for the uncertainty. Make frequent observations using quick hand-pit tests and take extra time to assess before entering larger terrain.  

State and local resources are working diligently to reduce the impacts of destructive storms that occurred earlier this month. We can help by respecting affected communities, complying with road closures, and adhering to ski area uphill travel policies.