Avalanche forecast

West Slopes Central

Northwest Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Tue
Alpine
1 · Low
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
1 · Low
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Out of date — this forecast expired 4 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Low avalanche danger may exist throughout the zone, but continue to stay on your toes if you travel to the upper reaches of our forecast zone where small wind slabs could still surprise you. High consequence, steep, and committing terrain is where you'd be most likely to find any avalanches, so make sure you investigate the area thoroughly before heading out onto that terrain. 

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Unlikely
    Size
    1

    Small, isolated wind slabs may still exist at upper elevations. Be especially cautious near ridges, on open steep slopes, and convex rollers in the alpine that could serve as likely trigger points. When in doubt steer around steep, wind-loaded slopes, especially if there is an accompanying terrain trap on the slope. 

    (1/29/2023) Tiny pockets of thin wind skins were present on Sunday. Even if these are insignificant where you're traveling, pay attention to it if you're traveling into higher and more wind-affected terrain, where they may start growing in size.  Photo: Irene Henninger

Avalanche Discussion

On Sunday I made it out to the neighboring Stevens Pass zone, where I found a variety of snow surfaces, from low density powder on sheltered northerly aspects to crusts in many other locations. Small wind slabs, both hard and soft, and wind-textured surfaces were present along ridges and other unsheltered slopes,  although I couldn't find any reactive slabs. Another thing to keep in mind is due to the frigid temperatures and clear skies, near surface facets, a form of weak snow, is likely developing in the uppermost portion of our snowpack. It's not a problem right now but it's something we'll be keeping on our mind when the next snowfall is on the horizon. 

A lot of variable snow surfaces, obstacles, and openings are present throughout the zone right now. Keep your head on a swivel while you're out there so you don't fall victim to any of these hazards. 

Regions covered