Avalanche forecast

East Slopes North

Northwest Avalanche Center
View on map

Avalanche danger

Wed
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
1 · Low
Open full map
Out of date — this forecast expired 4 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Light snowfall and easterly winds are maintaining avalanche danger at upper elevations. Use caution on steep slopes exposed to the wind if you observe shooting cracks, thick and hollow slabs, or active wind transport. Steep slopes in direct sun may warm up enough to create small loose avalanches later in the day.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1–1.5

    Recent snow and shifting strong winds will drift slabs of snow at upper elevations. Slabs may be thickest and larger at upper elevations. East winds formed slabs on Monday and may continue to be strong enough to transport snow on Tuesday. Older wind slabs formed from west winds through Saturday.

    Look for blowing snow or evidence of recent wind transport as you climb in elevation. If you observe shooting cracks in drifted snow, stay off of leeward slopes 35 degrees and steeper. Cornices may be fragile from recent growth, and could break under the weight of a person. 

    Small wind slab example.

    Photo: Will Govus

Avalanche Discussion

Washington Pass picked at least 5" of new snow on Monday, totaling 1 foot since Friday. Another couple of inches could accumulate on Tuesday. There's a chance for some clearing during the day on Tuesday, though much uncertainty exists. If slopes receive direct sun, the new snow could warm up enough for small wet avalanches. If you see snow surfaces warming and becoming weak, consider moving to shaded aspects or lower angle slopes. Beneath the new snow, you'll likely find a crust that formed late last week. This crust may be on the surface in windward areas or further east in the zone.

Information and observations are limited. Access to snow-covered slopes has become difficult in many parts of the zone. Be prepared to make your own observations and assessments. If you see conditions different from what we describe, defer to lower-angle and simpler terrain. The North Cascades Highway SR 20 is currently gated at Silverstar, though the road is plowed further west. Until the road opens, the WA State DOT allows recreational access on the North Cascades Highway near Washington Pass from Friday-Sunday. With road clearing operations underway midweek and other professional operations inactive, your observations are needed. If you're out in the mountains, let us know what you see. 

Regions covered