Stevens Pass

Avalanche danger is generally low, but moist snow surfaces and mild temperatures may create small wet loose avalanches and rollerballs. Consider the consequences of small sluffs before entering larger, more complex terrain. Shallow wind slabs main remain possible to trigger above 6,000ft on leeward, or shaded slopes. 

Observers found about 3-5" of newer snow over the recent (Valentines Day) crust layer on Thursday. Blowing snow and wind textured snow has been observed from afar on alpine features like The Swath and Jim Hill on Wednesday and Thursday. Winds have been moderate to strong from the west on the pass. With Friday comes a tricky cloud forecast, but in general we're expecting more clouds than not. If you find yourself in strong sunshine, expect the potential for small loose wet slides during the day in areas where with more than 4" of recent snow. Look for rollerballs and moist, sticky snow surfaces. Stay out of very steep complex terrain where small slides may prove consequential. Starting early and staying on shaded aspects can be one good way to score dry snow.

If you get out, have a look at the recently buried crust, especially on northerly aspects and above 5,000ft. I found some faceted snow within a brittle crust on a NW aspect at 5,300ft on Thursday. This layer is worth tracking, ahead of a substantial storm this weekend..  In any case, expect the avalanche danger to increase markedly with the arrival of a strong frontal system Saturday evening into Saturday night.

The snowpack is relatively shallow for this time of year, so be careful traveling near and through large fields of talus - you could pop through deep holes unexpectedly. There is less snow at lower elevations, so expect variable conditions, frozen rollerballs and old debris as you travel. Creeks have opened up at lower elevations and may be challenging to cross over. Sun-exposed southeast through southwest slopes have seen a significant transition to melt forms in the upper snowpack. What was the late January weak layer is now a mass of stout melt forms. The weak layer can still be found on some northerly and shaded slopes, though avalanches on it are unlikely. While the layer never produced an avalanche cycle in this zone, it was the source of collapsing and signs of instability.  Observers reported sudden test results up until Feb 8th in the zone. Numerous persistent slab avalanches have occurred on these layers in both East North and West North zones, where it's been more problematic.