Avalanche forecast

East Slopes Central

Northwest Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Thu
Alpine
3 · Considerable
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
2 · Moderate
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Out of date — this forecast expired 6 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Riding conditions are improving with the new snow, but winds will create sensitive slabs and drifts in upper elevation start zones and along exposed ridgelines. Avoid drifted areas where avalanches can carry you into rocks, trees, cliffs, or other obstacles. 

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Travel cautiously near ridgelines and other exposed terrain features today. Scattered showers through Wednesday afternoon will likely bring another 6 inches of new snow to the area. Temperatures stay cold and any snow on the ground will be easily transported by moderate to strong winds.

    Expect new slabs and drifts along ridgelines and in other exposed areas. These slabs will be noticeably more dense than the new snow and could be fairly sensitive to your weight. Conditions may change rapidly through the day so stay alert for signs of wind drifting snow (plumes coming off ridgelines) or signs of instability in the new snow (such as shooting cracks).  

    Shooting cracks are a good sign of instability in the newly drifted snow.

Avalanche Discussion

In sheltered areas, six to eight inches of recent snow is resting on weak faceted snow over a slick crust. Observers have noted that both near surface facets and surface hoar are widespread within the zone. This facet/crust interface will be the main concern moving forward, especially as snowfall begins to incrementally load these layers over the next week. 

It's been almost two weeks since our last major storm and avalanche cycle.  Large and destructive avalanches ran on January 12th, as heavy snow changed to rain. Even though the current storm is a much needed refresh, debris piles, icy runnels, and evidence of this avalanche cycle can still be found in the mountains -- especially at lower elevations and along wind scoured southerly aspects. 

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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