Avalanche forecast

Stevens Pass

Northwest Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Thu
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
1 · Low
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Out of date — this forecast expired 6 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

The sun may be out, but you may still be able to trigger a slab avalanche. Identify steep slopes and features with recently drifted snow to avoid.  Watch for signs of instability such as shooting cracks and whumphing collapses. 

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1–2

    Wind slabs can be found on all aspects, and in pockety distribution. You can find wind loaded slopes well below ridgeline, along the sides of gullies, and on exposed slopes at any elevation. Wind slabs may become larger and more prevalent as you ascend in elevation. Before this recent storm, a variety of snow surfaces existed. These recent slabs may bond well in some areas, but not in others. Look for signs of instability such as shooting cracks and whumphing as you travel. This is a good time to dig lots of quick pits to evaluate how the recent snow is bonding, and to look for a potential grey stripe of buried surface hoar. 

    Identify recently loaded features, and observe for cracking or whumphing in the snow as you travel. If you do observe these signs of instability, dial back your terrain choices significantly. 

    (11/27/2020) Cornices and drifts behind trees are clear indicators of wind loading on nearby slopes.

Avalanche Discussion

Observers reported difficult trailbreaking on Tuesday with some decent skiing. One observer reported a large collapse on a windslab below treeline near Skyline Ridge. About eight inches of snow can be found over a potentially weak interface (11/30). In some areas, this may make avalanches easier to trigger. Before this recent storm, a firm crust formed on steep sunny slopes. In shaded and more sheltered spots, surface hoar was reported in neighboring areas near the east side of the zone. 

Look for rollerballs or small loose avalanches in very steep terrain where unconsolidated snow escaped the wind. On steep south facing slopes, the sun may warm the snow enough to create small wet loose slides. In the shade, loose dry avalanches may carry momentum and entrain weakening snow surfaces. 

While the snowpack around the Pass is impressive for the beginning of December (40-60”/105-150cm), plenty of early-season obstacles still exist. Watch for open creeks, buried logs, and numerous small trees that may block your path.

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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