East Slopes South

Dangerous and overlapping avalanche problems will require conservative travel on slopes less than 35 degreess. You can trigger Loose Wet avalanches that gauge deeply at all elevations on Monday. Wind slabs rapidly become large and dangerous above 5500 to 6500 ft. On upper elevation shaded slopes there remains some uncertainty regarding water percolating down to a weak layer above a stout crust 1.5-3 ft down. 

We're approaching the end of a very active weather pattern in the East South zone. The most recent blast of moisture was the largest, bringing an inch of water Saturday night along with rapidly rising snow levels to at least 6500 ft. The storm was proably accompanied by a natural wet avalanche cycle. We don't know how extensive this was and how much lingering avalanche concern remains.

Fresh wind slabs will build as moderate rain and high elevation snow returns to the region Sunday night along with increasing moderate to strong winds and snow levels rising from 5500 to 6500 ft. Rain and high elevation snowfall will continue Sunday, totalling an inch of water equivalent. If weak snow remains, this could be the input needed to get water down to a weaker layer to trigger isolated natural large persistent slab avalanches.

It is far more likely that you will encounter wet snow and Loose Wet avalanches that initiate close to the snow surface. These could be large, and may gouge down to the early December crust. You will probably see evidence of recent activity if you look around at steep hillsides. Signs of loose wet instability are rollerballs, and wet sticky snow that entrains as it moves downhill. If you sink in deeper than your knee into wet snow, there is a danger of deep loose wet avalanches on steep slopes. The best way to manage large loose wet avalanches is to avoid being underneath very steep slopes, even in forested terrain if the trees are spaced out. 

At upper elevations, pay attention to the transition from wet to dry snow, signs of active or recent snow loading such as blowing snow, and fresh drifts or cornices. Avoid all wind-loaded slopes where you find 6" or more of snow above a crust.

Expect shallow snow cover below 4000-4500' and bare ground particularly on low south-facing slopes. Typical early season hazards can be expected with open creeks, stumps, and rocks. 

See the media gallery below for recent pictures of Pinegrass ridge, Mt Aix, and Mt Darland areas taken from White Pass.

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.