Avalanche forecast

West Slopes North

Northwest Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Mon
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Out of date — this forecast expired 6 years ago.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

You can trigger wind slabs on mid to upper elevation slopes on Sunday.  Notice where wind deposits snow, and avoid those areas on terrain greater than 35 degrees. 

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    An NWAC Forecaster snowmachined into the Canyon Creek area on Saturday.  Wind was transporting snow,  especially onto mid to upper elevation northerly aspects.  He found reactive wind slabs which failed 6-18 inches deep with the added weight of a person.  Expect similar conditions on Sunday, as wind continues and a few inches of snow falls.  

    Your weight on a slope can cause wind slab avalanches to fail 6 inches to almost 2 feet deep. Look for deposits on leeward slopes, where snow surfaces are pillow-like or textured by the wind. You will find the snow is stiffer in these spots than in non wind-affected areas. Avoid slopes greater than 35 degrees where these wind slabs are present. 

    Wind slabs tend to break above you on the slope when they do fail, making escape very difficult. An avalanche ending in a slowly dissipating slope angle on a broad slope is much more survivable than finishing in trees, a cliff band, or a gully (terrain traps).  Take these factors into account if you are unsure of the slope you are about to commit to. 

    (1/9/2021) A small wind slab avalanche triggered 1/9 which is already reloading. Herman's East side. Photo: Pete Durr

Avalanche Discussion

Lingering concern about deep slab instabilities failing near the bottom of last week’s storm snow have diminished by now. Dec 29-Jan 6 the Heather Meadows weather station at Mt Baker recorded 16” of water, measuring in at 7 feet of snow! Avalanches were reported nearly every one of those days, including one triggered by ski patrol with a 10 foot crown. It’s been 4 days since the storm broke and the snowpack has shown signs of strengthening. Tonight our next multi-day storm system begins.  

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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