Avalanche forecast

East Slopes South

Northwest Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

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

In alpine terrain, you may be able to trigger avalanches near ridgelines in wind drifted snow, particularly on northerly aspects. Travel cautiously near ridges and consider taking lower angle routes to make observations before committing to steep terrain. Avalanche hazard in the adjacent West South zone is very different and more dangerous and if you are traveling close to the border of the two zones, check out the West South Forecast.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    While precipitation and winds have tapered off, you may still find lingering wind slabs on lee aspects at the highest elevations. Approach new terrain in alpine zones cautiously, especially near ridgelines on northerly aspects where slabs may have formed over weaker snow. Use visual clues such as cornice formations and surface texture to identify wind-affected terrain. Look for signs of instability in wind-affected terrain. Shooting cracks, collapsing, or recent avalanche activity are all bullseye signs of an unstable slope. You can dig down quickly to observe if the snow slides easily off the crust. If the snow easily slides on the crust, or you see other signs of instability, stick to conservative terrain with lower angle slopes.

    Look for shooting cracks throughout your travels to identify unstable wind-drifted snow.

  • Loose Wet

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1

    Even with cooler temperatures on Thursday, the recent snow may get warm and wet quickly in the strong March sunshine. Clouds may accumulate in the afternoon and help keep surfaces cool. However, if you see rollerballs, small natural wet loose avalanches, or find yourself sinking deeply into heavy wet snow, it will be best to head towards shady terrain or stick to lower angle slopes. These loose wet slides may start small and run slowly, but don't underestimate these avalanches. They could knock you off your feet, carry you into trees, rocks, and creeks or bury you deeply in confined terrain.

Avalanche Discussion

While the snowpack is likely settling, it will still be important to approach new terrain with an assessment mindset and make observations before committing to steeper slopes. Stability throughout the zone may vary significantly, and while the new snow may have bonded well in some locations, other areas harbor sensitive avalanche conditions. In the nearby West South zone, avalanches have been triggered remotely on persistent weak layers. If you are near the Cascade Crest, be aware that the hazard could more closely reflect the West South forecast. 

Since early January, the East South zone hasn't received much snow, so the new snow brings a much-needed refresh. Unfortunately, the warm temperatures associated with the storm kept new snow accumulations minimal at elevations below 4500ft. These lower elevations still have very little or no snowpack, and you can expect challenging travel in areas with continuous snow. Utilizing summer trails to access higher elevations with a more robust snowpack may be the best option. Travel cautiously, especially at lower elevations, to avoid impacts with rocks or stumps, and beware of open creeks.

Regions covered