Avalanche forecast

West Slopes North

Northwest Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Sat
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
1 · Low
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Highlights

Recent and active wind drifting and slab formation will be most prevalent at upper elevations. Steer around steep, upper-elevation slopes with active wind transport, or firmer, textured snow surfaces. You may also be more likely to find slabs you can trigger in the Highway 20 corridor.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1–1.5

    Observers in the Baker BC weren't able to find evidence of wind slabs at middle elevations, but plumes of snow along upper-elevation ridgelines suggest that they may linger at these higher elevations. Fresh wind slabs could form Friday afternoon in areas exposed to the E flow as winds ramp back up.  Significant amounts of dry snow remain available for transport on the northern half of the compass, while only around an inch of dry snow rests above a sun crusts on other aspects. Locations farther east in the zone and channeled valleys could drag wind slabs down into middle elevations in some areas. Look for active wind transport, recently covered tracks, and slightly firm or punchy snow layering to identify the hazard. Recognize that it will increase as you ascend. Wind slabs may exist on slopes where you don't normally expect to find them. A crust may provide a bed surface in some terrain. Continue to steer around steep, wind-loaded slopes.

    Example: Identify and steer around steep, wind-affected snow like this where you can trigger a small wind slab on Friday.

Avalanche Discussion

Slab hazards remain minimal in the highest-use areas around the Baker Backcountry, but could be more in line with the West Central zone if you head further east. Observers on Ruby Mountain Wednesday, reported 8-10" of snow poorly bonded to a firm interface. They triggered multiple dry loose avalanches on very steep terrain, confirming the ongoing dry loose hazard.

Observers in the Baker BC reported snow transport along ridgelines Wednesday evening, but calm winds on Thursday, with clouds limiting visibility to upper elevations (photos in the gallery). They found excellent riding on N aspects with no sign of wind slabs in that terrain. Dry loose activity was minimal even on very steep slopes.  Observers earlier in the week found storm layers are generally bonding well, and faceted snow below the new snow doesn’t seem to be an issue. The last small natural and human-triggered slab avalanches were reported from upper elevations on Monday. Areas that experienced cooler temperatures and/or less wind during the last storm might have slightly weaker layering. This is something to consider if you recreate in less trafficked areas.

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