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RegisterDec 11th, 2019–Dec 12th, 2019
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Expect heavy snowfall combined with strong winds to create unstable conditions. Slab avalanches may become easily triggered and widespread on high elevation slopes. This potent winter storm will drastically change the previous snow cover.
We have limited information about the current snow and avalanche set up, but heres what we know: Washington pass did well with a few storms in late November, opening up opportunities to recreate on snow mainly near and above treeline. As of this writing, average snow depths of 15" to 30" can be found in the area. That is set to increase, perhaps double over the next couple of days. Along with potential instabilities within the storm layer, the snowpack structure does harbor some weak snow. The recently buried surface, and a layer of facets above a crust found roughly 12" up from the ground warrant closer inspection.
On December 10th, an observer reported reactive conditions within a wind drift on a north facing slope at around 6,000ft. Check his recent observation here. On December 8th, test results indicated sudden failures 12" from the ground on a southeast facing slope at 7,000ft above Blue Lakes Trailhead on weak snow above a crust near the ground. On December 7, an observer found a natural slab that was triggered from loose snow just above Blue Lake on a north facing slope at 6,400ft. This appears to have occurred on the same layer. This is enough information to warrant suspicion of persistent layers, and bears consideration as the storm tapers off into the weekend.
Regional Synopsis Coming Thursday, December 12, 2019