East Slopes South

Significant wind transport at upper elevations may maintain very dangerous avalanche conditions on upper-elevation lee slopes. The lingering threat of deep and very large avalanches urges us to stay far away from and out from under open slopes steeper than 30 degrees.

Observations from Stevens Pass and the Cascades East Central zone document that the avalanche danger hit "extreme" on Monday with many slide paths running naturally in the D3-D4 (very large size range). The Cascades East South zone likely harbors some of the same weak snow as our northern neighbor and it stands so some very large natural avalanche activity likely occurred here too. 

We're at the tail end of a 13-day storm cycle in the West South zone. Upper-elevation wind-loading should maintain very dangerous conditions, blowing around 3-6" of fresh lower-density snow. Elevations above the recent rain/snow line host prime conditions for human-triggered avalanches. The threat of very large avalanches running on deeper persistent weak layers remains elevated as the snowpack adjust to 0.75" to 1.5" of water equivalent arriving in the last 48 hours.  Weak layers are within the depth that humans can trigger. Expect the new fluffy powder to tempt you onto suspect slopes. Recognize our human weakness and blacklist all terrain on or connected to slopes greater than 30 degrees where persistent slabs may fail.

If you do travel in the mountains, choose slopes under 30 degrees. Avoid going into, near, or underneath anywhere an avalanche could start, stop, or run. Avalanches will run at all elevations, could be very deep and destructive, and could break trees.  

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.