Avalanche Forecast

Low - Uncertainty is due to the limited number of field observations.

  

SATURDAY NIGHT: Snow; 5-10 cm. / Strong, southwest ridgetop wind / alpine low temperature -10 / Freezing level valley bottom.

SUNDAY: Snow; 5-10 cm. / Strong, southwest ridgetop wind / alpine high temperature -8 / Freezing level valley bottom.

MONDAY: Snow; 10-15 cm. / Moderate, southwest ridgetop wind / alpine high temperature -7 / Freezing level valley bottom.

TUESDAY: Cloudy with isolated flurries; 0-3 cm. / Moderate, southwest ridgetop wind / alpine high temperature -7 / Freezing level valley bottom.

A widespread natural avalanche cycle with numerous avalanches up to size 3 was reported to have occurred in the White Pass area, mostly during the height of the storm (Monday-Wednesday) Check out this MIN report detailing these observations.

With more snow and wind on the way, it is expected that avalanches will remain likely to human trigger over the weekend, especially in wind loaded areas.

  

Continued snow with strong, southwest winds are forecast through the weekend.

The White Pass area received over 100 cm of new snow earlier in the week with strong southwest winds. Total snowpack depth is around 175 cm in sheltered areas around White Pass.

In drier areas such as the Wheaton Valley, total snowpack depths are likely in the 50-100 cm range and are probably quite variable due to wind transport. The base of the snowpack in this area may consist of some weak, sugary facets. 

 Both storm slabs and wind slabs are likely widespread in the region and may be easily triggered by humans. Storm slabs may be more prevalent in the White Pass area, while wind slabs may be more prominent in areas like the Wheaton Valley.

• Watch for fresh storm slabs building throughout the day.
• Watch for newly formed and reactive wind slabs as you transition into wind affected terrain.
• Recent new snow may be hiding windslabs that were easily visible before the snow fell.
• Avoid lee and cross-loaded terrain.
• Avoid shallow, rocky areas where the snowpack transitions from thick to thin.