East Slopes South

Shallow wind-affected snow may be widespread near and above treeline. Use the variability in the upper snowpack to identify and avoid deeper regions of firm or punchy snow. Steer around steep and potentially wind-loaded slopes, recognizing the potential for slabs well below typical start zones.

Several inches of snow fell in the East South zone, however, the major story has been the winds. At the nearby White Pass Pigtail Peak station (5800 ft), sustained winds peaked in the 71 mph range with gusts to 110 mph! These same winds moving through the mountain gaps were accelerating down the east slopes of the Cascades.  Given the strength of the wind event, slabs will be firmer than you expect and they may be large enough to take you for a ride. Frequently when we get such strong and prolonged wind events,  the wind-affected snow ends up being more uniform than when the winds are only moderate to strong.  However, don't assume that this wind event will create a uniform veneer. Variability in the depth of the wind-affected snow over the most recent crust or interface will help you determine whether slabs have formed in your terrain. You can monitor this depth using a pole or probe. Steer around steep slopes with firm, punchy snow layers and areas of wind-drifted snow 6" or deeper. Be aware that sunshine can rapidly alter snowpack properties, consolidating slabs, and potentially making human-triggered avalanches more likely.

Despite cool temperatures on Sunday, light winds and sunshine will warm the recent snow. Expect small rollerballs to entrain the new snow and very shallow wet loose avalanches to follow suit. We don't expect the new snow that destabilizes to be deep enough to become problematic except on extreme terrain features where you could get pushed over a cliff or into a terrain trap such as a gulley. If you find areas where the new snow proves deeper than we expect or observe evidence that wet loose avalanches are more 2-3" deep, you should re-evaluate the conditions, reduce your exposure to steep sunny slopes above you, and dial back your terrain selection.

 The sun has exposed rocks near ridgelines and bare ground on some south and west-facing slopes. At low elevations, creeks may contain significant flow and snow bridges are beginning to become suspect.

An upcoming week of mostly dry weather with gradually warming temperatures should recommence the transition from a colder layered snowpack to a wet spring snowpack. Meltwater played a role in glide and wet slab avalanches in the Washington Cascades last week. It will become an increasing player as the coming week progresses. If you dig down in the snow, pay attention to how deeply meltwater has percolated, and please consider sharing your finding on the public observations page. This will improve our ability to forecast wet avalanche problems.

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.