Boletín de aludes

East Slopes North

Northwest Avalanche Center
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Peligro de aludes

Tue
Alta montaña
3 · Notable
Límite del bosque
2 · Moderado
Bajo el límite
2 · Moderado
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Desactualizado: este boletín caducó 5 years ago. Estás viendo condiciones pasadas, no el boletín vigente.

Lo esencial

You can trigger large avalanches at upper elevations where the wind has drifted thick slabs of snow. Stick to low-angle slopes and stay well out from under steep overhead terrain. Expect light snow and shifting wind for Monday.

 

Problemas de aludes

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alta montaña
    • Límite del bosque
    • Bajo el límite del bosque
    Probabilidad
    Likely
    Tamaño
    1.5–2.5

    You can trigger avalanches near and above treeline especially on leeward sides of rideges and terrain features. Some of these avalanches could be big enough to run to the valley bottom. Use caution on leeward slopes 35 degrees and steeper, especially where the wind forms thick drifts and pillows. Stay out from under steep, unsupported overhead terrain where avalanches could come from above. 

    Avalanches will be largest and easiest to trigger above treeline. You may even find drifts in open areas below treeline. Use a probe or pole to feel for deeper drifts. Indicators of the danger are recent avalanches, cracks shooting through the snow, and wind transported snow.

    (12/12/2021)

    A natural avalanche above Blue Lake likely ran on 12/11/2021. Washington Pass

    Photo: Josh Cole

Avalanche Discussion

Saturday was an active day on Washington Pass. Observers reported natural avalanches up to size D2.5 running throughout the day as temperatures warmed and snow accumulated. Multiple natural avalanches were reported in the Hairpin Valley at the head of Early Winters Creek. These occurred on northeast aspects, likely above treeline, and originated from unsupported, steep slopes. Observers also reported natural avalanches on east northeast aspects that hit Highway 20 between Cutthroat Creek and the hairpin turn. Another natural avalanche that likely ran on Saturday was reported above Blue Lake.

On Saturday, observers reported that 2.5 feet of snow accumulated since Friday at the Cutthroat Trailhead. About 3 feet of settled snow has accumulated over the most recent crust (buried in early December).  Observers have reported varied test results and triggered avalanches on this early December crust. So far, we haven't confirmed any avalanches from this recent cycle on the crust, but it's a good idea to keep an eye on this interface. 

On Saturday morning, December 12th, an avalanche fatality occurred in Silver Basin area of Crystal Mountain Ski Resort. Our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and community. See the accident report for details. 

Uphill travel reminder: Check in with your local ski area this weekend regarding terrain access and parking updates. Closed ski areas often share a similar snowpack and avalanche hazard as the surrounding backcountry. You may also encounter other hazards like active avalanche mitigation, unmarked obstacles, snowmobiles, groomers, and other heavy equipment as ski areas prepare to open. Be prepared to make your own assessments and handle emergency situations.

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