Snoqualmie Pass

Cloudy skies, mild temperatures, and moderate winds will help limit the avalanche danger on Sunday at Snoqualmie Pass. You could find isolated pockets of unstable snow in very steep or complex terrain.

We expect cloudy skies, mild temperatures, and moderate winds on Sunday. Without a significant weather input, it’s hard to point toward any particular avalanche hazard given the current snowpack structure. As a result, we anticipate generally safe avalanche conditions. Just because the hazard is low, doesn’t mean you can’t encounter unstable snow. Two cases, in particular, should stay on your mind while traveling Sunday. 

1. Cloud cover and warm temperatures Saturday night may hamper the refreeze of the snow surface. If you encounter wet snow deeper than your ankle you may trigger loose wet avalanches. You’re most likely to find wet snow at lower elevations or near rocks. If you see these conditions seek out firmer or lower angled snow. 
2. If you travel on complex rocky northerly slopes, you may still find small pockets of wind drifted snow. Don’t let one of these lingering small wind slabs catch you by surprise in high consequence terrain. Look for subtle clues like small drifts or changes in the texture of the surface to help you anticipate these wind-loaded features. 

Light rain and snow showers should arrive at the Pass by late afternoon. We don’t anticipate sufficient precipitation during the day to increase the avalanche hazard. Expect rain at Pass level that will transition to snow overnight Sunday. 

The snowpack you encounter depends largely on which direction the slope faces. On more northerly aspects, professionals reported cold dry surface snow on Saturday. Several inches of soft settled snow sits above a recent crust (3/5). On slopes that received direct sunshine the past few days, the snow surface underwent several melt-freeze cycles. Despite the recent warm weather, below these superficial differences, the upper snowpack remains cold and layered. You can still identify most of the recent storm events, crust, and interfaces from the past month. (See media gallery for a recent snow profile).  

Given the changes in the snow surface by aspect, elevation, and time of day, expect variable travel conditions. This may include breakable crust, wet heavy snow, firm slopes, and soft settled powder. 

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.