Avalanche Forecast
Jan 21st, 2019–Jan 22nd, 2019
Alpine
3:
Considerable
The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be considerable
Treeline
3:
Considerable
The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be considerable
Below Treeline
2:
Moderate
The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be moderate
Alpine
3:
Considerable
The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be considerable
Treeline
3:
Considerable
The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be considerable
Below Treeline
2:
Moderate
The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be moderate
Regions: Cascades - West.
The Bottom Line: A potent storm will begin early on Tuesday. Dangerous avalanche conditions may develop by the afternoon at mid and upper elevations. New and wind-drifted snow may not bond well to old snow surfaces. Monitor changing conditions throughout the day.
Snow and Avalanche Discussion
An incoming storm will bring heavy snowfall and a warming trend over the next 48 hours. Snow levels will start off near 2000ft. Expect increasing avalanche danger throughout the day Tuesday as snow accumulates. The majority of precipitation will come Tuesday night as snow levels rise to 4500ft.
Avalanche activity was minimal over the past 3 days in neighboring zones with generally few signs of unstable snow. Overall, the existing snowpack is strong. Areas near and above treeline have 80-100in of snow on the ground. Significantly less snow exists below treeline due to rain and high snow levels during the majority of storms so far this season.
Avalanche Problems
Wind Slabs
New snow and wind will form fresh drifts primarily at mid and upper elevations. Conditions could change rapidly throughout the day Tuesday. Touchy wind slabs may develop in leeward terrain late in the day. Monitor snow accumulation and rate. Watch for blowing snow and cornice formation. If you see 6in or more of new snow, dial back your terrain selection to lower angled and supported slopes. Hollow sounding snow, textured snow surfaces, and smoothly rounded pillows are good indications wind slabs are present. Avoid wind-loaded convex slopes 35 degrees and steeper.
Aspects: All aspects.
Elevations: All elevations.
Likelihood: Likely
Expected Size: 2 - 3