Olympics

The Olympics are in a prime position to possibly receive significant snowfall out of the latest round of storms. Give the snowpack time to adjust to the new load on Monday. If you see signs of unstable snow as you travel such as whumpfing collapses or shooting cracks, avoid slopes 35 degrees and steeper.

It has been a wet and wild few days in the Olympic mountains and Monday will be no different. As a storm tracks up from Oregon, the Olympics should be set to receive a good shot of precipitation Sunday night and Monday. If the storm stays on its projected track, this precipitation should be mostly snow, with up to 20” possible. A divergence in the storm track could bring snow followed by rain. Regardless of the precipitation type, you will be dealing with upper snowpack avalanche problems on Monday. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Take note of what’s happening outside with the weather. If the snow is piling up more than expected or the winds are actively moving snow around, realize that the possibility of avalanches is increasing and you should avoid slopes over 35 degrees.  Slabs should be larger and possibly more reactive as you ascend in elevation or in areas where the wind was able to drift snow into deeper piles.
• If you find rain falling on dry or new snow, steep slopes could possibly produce wet avalanches. You should head for low-angle slopes and be aware of the terrain above you in this situation.
• Signs of unstable snow such as whumpfing were reported earlier this weekend. Continue to look for whumpfing and shooting cracks as you travel to help you identify unstable snow.
• You can use hand pits and small test slopes to test the bond between the new snow and the old snow. If you find a poor bond, avoid traveling on consequential slopes.
• Regardless of how the day shakes out, any avalanche activity should occur within new snow or at the 12/18 interface. Although unlikely at this point, there could be some slides that break into deeper snow if water is able to penetrate deep into the snowpack and break down the bonds between snow crystals.

2020-21 Forecast Schedule: Avalanche danger ratings will be issued for the Olympics every Friday through Sunday and during mid-week holidays. During the week when the Hurricane Ridge road is closed, forecast information will be updated daily to include expected conditions and relevant travel advice under the No Rating label.  

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.