East Slopes North

Avalanche danger is low, but you could stumble into a small windslab at the highest elevations at the western edge of the zone. Conditions could be challenging with a refrozen, sometimes breakable crust. Expect early season hazards due to shallow snow cover at lower elevations. 

At the highest elevations, very small and isolated windslabs may be possible with some new snow over a crust. Keep an eye out if venturing way up there for areas of thickly drifted new snow.

An observer found a thick freezing rain crust near and east of the hairpin on Hwy 20 on Wednesday, but not west of the there. Instead, he found a handful of inches of new snow on the west side. A round of small loose wet avalanches occurred sometime between Tuesday and Wednesday morning, and heavy wet and unsupportable conditions were found below 5,500ft. Expect challenging and tricky travel conditions where this crust exists, as it may be breakable with heavy snow underneath. The snowpack remains shallow especially at lower elevations, and early season hazards such as downed trees, rocks and creeks are plentiful. 

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.