East Slopes Central

You can easily trigger avalanches in steep, wind-drifted terrain just below ridges and where you see blowing snow. To reduce your risk of being caught in a slide, choose low-angle terrain or seek out wind-sheltered terrain. Strong winds will continue to form stiff slabs of snow at middle and upper elevations. 

Since mid-week, Mission Ridge picked up over 1 foot of snow on the upper mountain. On the 18th, ski patrol easily triggered avalanches in wind-loaded areas on a stout ice crust from mid-December. On Friday, there was 3-6" of recent snow over the December 18th crust at Snoqualmie and Stevens Pass, respectively. Snow totals are unknown in other areas of this zone closer to the Cascade Crest.

The last few days have been dominated by colder, stormier weather with significant winds. We have extremely limited snowpack data due to difficult access. But we do know the recent snow fell on bare ground or slick crusts. This creates significant uncertainty about the bond to the underlying crust and low overall forecast confidence. To mitigate this increased uncertainty, make frequent observations using quick hand-pit tests and take extra time before entering larger or more complex terrain. 

We are still assessing the widespread damage from the recent flooding and windstorms. Be prepared to be turned around due to road closures, washouts, mudslides, or downed trees. When you do make it to continuous snow, watch for shallowly buried rocks, trees, and high-flowing creeks. 

The weather over the past few weeks has been extraordinary, with torrential rains, extreme winds, flooding, and landslides. Many communities are dealing with damage to homes, infrastructure, and businesses, stretching resources thin. These events have limited access to the mountains for all of us. State and local resources are working diligently to reduce the worst of these impacts. We can help by being respectful of local communities, obeying road closures, and heeding ski area uphill travel policies.