Avalanche forecast

West Slopes Central

Northwest Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Sat
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
2 · Moderate
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Highlights

Lingering reactive wind slabs could remain on upper elevation slopes in Wednesday night's 1-2 feet of snow that fell. Stay alert for these slabs by identifying heavier snow or pillowed surfaces, and avoid these areas on slopes greater than 35 degrees. Wet loose avalanches may occur if we see enough warming, which is most likely in southern portions of the zone.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Well over a foot of snow fell Wednesday night in the West Central zone. Small slab and loose snow avalanches were easily triggered in the new snow in neighboring zones. Conditions will become more stable on Friday, but it is still possible to trigger a wind slab avalanche in isolated upper elevation pockets. Feel for stiffer snow and identify wind-textured surfaces or pillows of fresh snow. You are most likely to find them in gullies, around features or beneath rock bands. If you notice these characteristics stay off slopes greater than 35 degrees in nearby areas.

    A small human triggered slab avalanche which occurred a few weeks ago on the new snow/old snow interface in the Stevens Pass zone. This is similar to what you might find on Friday.

  • Loose Wet

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1

    Sun breaks and warmer temperatures could cause small wet loose avalanches especially in the southern half of the zone where cloud cover may be lighter. Feel for snow surfaces getting moist, and watch for indicators of the snow surface losing strength such as rollerballs. When this starts happening move to shadier slopes or lower angle terrain without steeper slopes above you.

    An example of recent small, natural wet loose avalanches and rollerballs like what you might see on Friday.

Avalanche Discussion

Spring conditions make for challenging forecasting, where even a small sun break could drastically warm the snow surface and change avalanche conditions. Pay attention to the snow and weather as you travel, and prepare to make changes based on the information at hand. 

Southerly slopes beneath the fresh snow layer were quickly transitioning to wet snow, while the upper elevation north aspect was still hanging onto winter.  Beneath the new snow layer on the southerly half, the top couple feet or more of snow is wet and a few notable crusts are present. 

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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