Avalanche forecast

West Slopes North

Northwest Avalanche Center
View on map

Avalanche danger

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Out of date — this forecast expired 6 years ago.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

Highlights

The forecast has been updated - shallow wind slabs as the most likely avalanche problem you'll encounter today.  Wind slabs should be small, but may still be found on lee slopes with wind drifted snow at mid and upper elevations.   

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1

    Small but sensitive wind slabs may be still be reactive today, especially on shaded slopes at mid and higher elevations.  Monitor changing surface conditions as you climb up in elevation and transition into wind affected terrain.  Use visual clues to help identify wind-drifted snow and look for sudden changes in snow surface texture and hardness. To avoid the problem, choose sheltered, lower-angle terrain, and steer around convex rollovers and slopes below cornices. 

    (11/28/2020) Small skier triggered wind slab in the Mt Baker backcountry.

  • Loose Wet

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1

    Small natural and human triggered avalanches involving the most recent snowfall are possible on steep solar slopes, especially in areas that see more sun and less wind than other areas in the zone.  Watch for dripping trees, pinwheels, and rollerballs as clues that loose wet avalanches may follow. Be especially careful around large, rocky outcrops on SE-S-SW aspects that could shed snow onto slopes below. Be particularly mindful of small avalanches near terrain traps.  You can always shift to lower angle and shaded slopes to steer clear of this problem.

    Ex: Natural wet loose avalanches on the south side of Table Mt on a mild sunny day near the winter solistice.

Avalanche Discussion

4" of snow was recorded Saturday morning at the Heather Meadows plot along with clearing skies and decreasing winds.  Snow depths range from 40-65 in. throughout the North Cascades, and continuous snow begins near 2500-3000ft. Snow coverage is well above average for this time of year, but early season conditions still exist. Stay alert for open creeks, tree wells, crevasses, or other exposed hazards. Consider the consequences when choosing terrain. Falling or getting caught in even a small avalanche could result in a rough ride.

Now is a great time to run through your safety equipment and make sure everything is in good working order. CLICK HERE for more information on early-season equipment checks. What did you see out in the field? SHARE YOUR OBSERVATIONS with NWAC and the backcountry community. Check out this BLOG POST and VIDEO TUTORIAL to find out more about why observations are so important and how you can view and share information on NWAC’s new public observations platform.

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.

Regions covered