Avalanche forecast

West Slopes Central

Northwest Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Tue
Alpine
3 · Considerable
Treeline
3 · Considerable
Below
2 · Moderate
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Out of date — this forecast expired 5 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Stay alert for dangerous wind slabs after Sunday’s large snow and wind event. Avoid steep slopes where wind deposited thick slabs of snow, as it is likely that you could trigger an avalanche in that terrain.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Around a foot of snow and strong winds deposited snow into thick, reactive slabs on Sunday. Minimal snowfall continues into Monday, but the snowpack will remain sensitive to a human trigger on steep slopes. Expect to find snow deposited in unusual locations, such as lower on a slope than expected, given the intense winds that came with the storm. 

    Identify wind loaded features like smooth, pillowed slopes or rippled snow surfaces. Feel for thicker or hollow snow.  Loading most likely occurred in gullies and around features or on leeward slopes. Find these areas where wind deposited the new snow and avoid them on slopes greater than 35 degrees.

    Gale force winds will cause wind slab formation in unusual areas, such as further downslope than expected like in this photo.

Avalanche Discussion

The last 24 hours’ snow fell on a variety of surfaces, from powder at higher elevation north facing slopes to smooth or textured crusts on the southern half of the compass. It is unknown how well the new snow bonded to the underlying layers, so stay wary of a weak interface as you travel in the backcountry on Monday.

Small wet loose avalanches or rollerballs might occur on steep southerly slopes Monday afternoon, as skies clear. Pay attention to snow moisture, and if low density snow begins to get wet, avoid traveling on or beneath steep slopes. Cornices are ceaselessly growing, increasing their chances of failing. A falling cornice could trigger a large avalanches on steep wind loaded slopes beneath. Give them a wide berth as you travel.  

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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