East Slopes South

Generally, safe avalanche conditions exist. Look for daytime warming on steep sun-exposed slopes. If you find yourself sinking into the snow more than ankle-deep, move to terrain that is getting less direct sun or below 35 degrees in slope angle. Steer well clear of cornices as we proceed into spring.

High temperatures ranged from 48-54 F each day Wednesday through Saturday at Bumping Ridge (4600 ft), stabilizing the snow surface. Temperatures were significantly cooler on Sunday and Monday. However, elevations below 4500 ft may have experienced several nights with above freezing conditions. Similar conditions led to the development of a glide avalanche cycle in the Snoqualmie Pass area. Limit your time below open glide cracks and/or cliff faces that continue to hold snow.

As temperatures remain warm on Tuesday, pay attention to the snow surface as it transitions from firm crusts to slushy surface snow. If you are sinking into the snow more than 6 inches, you could trigger a wet avalanche on a steep slope. Steer around higher consequence terrain such as above cliffs and creeks. Seek colder, firmer, shaded aspects or terrain below 35 degrees in slope angle. Maintain an eye out for nearby fresh avalanche activity as a warning sign that the upper snowpack may be destabilizing more than we expect. 

Continue to give cornices a wide berth as you travel along ridgelines and be aware of the overhead hazard if traveling on slopes below these giant masses. Warm temperatures will weaken the snow and ice holding them up, making them increasingly likely to collapse.

As we continue into spring, we're experiencing a gradual transition from a colder layered snowpack to a wet spring snowpack. That transition takes place from the top down. If you dig down in the snow, pay attention to how deeply meltwater has percolated, and please consider sharing your finding on the public observations page. This will improve our ability to forecast wet avalanche problems as the spring snowpack evolves.

Observers in the Tieton River drainage on 3/27 found low elevation and steep south-facing slopes starting to melt out as the calendar approaches April. After a week of mild weather, expect more melt-out, flowing streams, and exposed rocks.

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.