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Archived

Avalanche Forecast

Dec 25th, 2019–Dec 26th, 2019
Alpine
1: Low
The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be low
Treeline
1: Low
The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be low
Below Treeline
1: Low
The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low
Alpine
2: Moderate
The avalanche danger rating in the alpine will be moderate
Treeline
1: Low
The avalanche danger rating at treeline will be low
Below Treeline
1: Low
The avalanche danger rating below treeline will be low

Regions: Olympics.

Low danger does not mean no danger. Shallow wind slabs may have formed or may begin forming near ridgelines. A layer of preserved surface hoar below the recent storm snow may no longer an issue, but consider checking for it before committing to steep, large, or unsupported terrain features at mid and upper elevations.

Discussion

Since Sunday, temperatures have been below freezing with the exception of an hour or two mid-day on Wednesday that may have formed a melt-freeze crust on southerly aspects. Light SSE winds may have transported snow Tuesday night with more wind transport and potential minor slab formation possible late on Wednesday as a cold front approaches.

On Sunday, no new avalanches were observed in the Hurricane Ridge area, but additional observations of recent natural slab avalanches from Friday/Saturday filtered in with improved access and visibility. Hurricane Ridge recorded a whopping 33” of snow over the 48 hours ending Saturday morning. Above 4000-4500’, this storm has filled in what had been a meager snowpack with an average height of snow in the Hurricane Ridge area over 3 ft. Below 4000’ a thin snowpack still exists, so continue to travel cautiously at lower elevations.

Prior to the recent storm (on 12/19), NWAC and NPS professionals identified a reactive layer of surface hoar on northern aspects at mid-elevations. We don’t know if the layer remains reactive, but look for it 10-15” above the ground.

Forecast Schedule

For the 2019-20 winter season, avalanche danger ratings will be issued for the Olympics every Friday through Sunday and during mid-week holidays. During the week, No Rating will be issued but forecasts will include expected conditions and relevant travel advice.  If you are out in the Olympics, share your backcountry observations with us and the greater community.

Snowpack Discussion

New Regional Synopsis coming soon. We update the Regional Synopsis every Thursday at 6 pm.

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