Boletín de aludes

Olympics

Northwest Avalanche Center
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Peligro de aludes

Sat
Alta montaña
2 · Moderado
Límite del bosque
2 · Moderado
Bajo el límite
1 · Débil
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Desactualizado: este boletín caducó 6 years ago. Estás viendo condiciones pasadas, no el boletín vigente.

Lo esencial

Ho, ho, ho. Santa will bring new snow and colder temperatures from the North Pole on Christmas Day. In more wind prone locations, snow may drift into thicker and firmer slabs that could produce small avalanches. If you see blowing snow or find deeper pockets, steer away from nearby steep slopes.

Problemas de aludes

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alta montaña
    • Límite del bosque
    • Bajo el límite del bosque
    Probabilidad
    Possible
    Tamaño
    1

    Look for moderate southerly winds to transport the new snow during the day forming shallow wind slabs on the lee sides of ridgelines and exposed features. As more snow falls these potential avalanches may become deeper and easier to trigger. By late afternoon you could find slabs 6-10” deep. Watch for simple signs of the wind loading on nearby slopes. Blowing snow, drifts behind trees, and areas of deeper snow over a recent crust can show you where wind slabs likely lurk. While these avalanches should remain small, they could run on a firm crust, allowing them to move quickly. Be leery of steep and convex slopes where you suspect windloading occurred.

    (12/23/2020) Example: Blowing snow from moderate southeasterly winds was at ridgecrest in the Snow

Avalanche Discussion

It may take a few hours before enough new snow accumulates to nudge the avalanche hazard up slightly. Once the snow begins to accumulate and the wind continues to blow, it’s time to really start paying attention. We don’t have a clear picture of the current snowpack in the Olympics, however recent weather indicates that a very stout crust formed as a result of a rain event last Saturday through Monday. Subsequently, a few inches of snow accumulated over that crust. We anticipate any avalanches to remain in the new snow above this icy snowpack marker. While this crust layer may help prevent deeper avalanches, it could also create slick travel conditions. If you find this icy layer at or near the surface, use extra caution. A simple slip could easily turn into an uncontrolled fall. 

At lower elevations, a very rough snow surface, exposed objects, and minimal new snow will keep the avalanche danger lower. However, you may find challenging travel conditions with areas of thin coverage, icy slopes, and open creeks. Give yourself additional time to negotiate these obstacles. 

Happy Holidays from your friends at NWAC!

2020-21 Forecast Schedule: Avalanche danger ratings will be issued for the Olympics every Friday through Sunday and during mid-week holidays. During the week when the Hurricane Ridge road is closed, forecast information will be updated daily to include expected conditions and relevant travel advice under the No Rating label.   

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.

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