Avalanche forecast

East Slopes Central

Northwest Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Sun
Alpine
1 · Low
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
1 · Low
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Out of date — this forecast expired 6 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

The danger is easing and avalanches are now difficult to trigger. If you're really hunting, you may be able to trigger an isolated and small wind slab avalanche near the highest elevation ridges. Steer around areas of recently drifted snow on slopes steeper than 35 degrees above treeline. 

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Unlikely
    Size
    1

    It's now difficult to trigger wind slab avalanches. Expect more southwest wind Friday night into Saturday, but the wind may not have much snow to transport. Older drifts formed after a shot of snow Tuesday night and west to southwest winds through the week. Any fresh slabs will be small and immediately on the leeward sides of ridges and terrain features. You can avoid triggering avalanches by steering around these drifted features where you find stiffer snow. Watch for signs like cracks shooting through the snow as a warning to avoid these locations. 

    (11/21/2020) An example of cornices and loading on Rock Mountain near the Cascade Crest last weekend.

Avalanche Discussion

Expect more wind than snow Friday night into Saturday. If you travel near the Cascade Crest, you may find up to a couple of inches by Saturday morning. The sun and warm temperatures drove small wet avalanches Thursday and Friday.

The height of snow varies significantly through the zone with up to 5 feet on the ground above 6,000ft at the Cascade Crest yet very shallow coverage at low elevations and near Highway 97. Expect lots of variability in snowpack structure. On shaded northerly slopes and you may find weak snow in places. Along with shallow snow cover comes the risk of hitting rocks and logs while you're moving on the snow. An impact could result in injury or damage to equipment. In some places, this risk may be greater than that of avalanches.

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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