Snoqualmie Pass

The greatest risk you face Tuesday may come from variable and sometimes icy travel conditions. Give yourself plenty of time and make sure you carry the tools you need to negotiate this non-avalanche hazard.

You should find a very strong snowpack around the Snoqualmie Pass region. The upper snowpack consists of various layers of stout crusts, refreezing wet snow, and strong rounded grains. This will result in generally safe avalanche conditions. The Pass received a few inches of snow early Sunday morning, but this won’t pose any threat. However, variable snow surfaces could result in very real risks as you travel. At lower elevations, observations highlight breakable crusts, icy slopes, frozen tree bombs, piles of avalanche debris, and open creeks. As you ascend, expect very firm and icy conditions where even a simple slip could result in a long and uncontrolled fall. Make sure you allow yourself some extra time and bring any additional tools you need to deal with these non-avalanche risks.

The big question Tuesday, will the snow surface soften? After a chilly start to the morning, rising temperatures and a little sunshine will help steep southerly slopes slowly warm. However, thin clouds and a cool breeze should limit the thawing in most terrain. Forecasting these subtle differences can prove challenging, especially when it involves predicting cloudy cover. The best observation tool you have is your feet. Pay attention to how deep your boot sinks into the snow. If your foot goes in past your ankle, seek out slightly more frozen slopes. 

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.