Olympics

Wind slabs formed within the last 48 hours and should be isolated to steep rollovers near ridgeline and in the alpine where you should steer clear of lens-shaped pillows. Scoured ridges and wind-sculpted snow indicate small wind slabs lurk nearby. Fresh snow superficially covers snowpack damage from a mild and then wet December start - watch for shallowly submerged obstacles throughout the terrain.

Light winds (moderate in exposed locations) redistributed around 4" of fresh snow that fell at temperatures just below freezing. We're expecting another inch or so of snow at slightly cooler temperatures with light winds in the next 24 hours. Recently formed shallow wind slabs sit on 1-2" of lower density snow that fell last week, which sits on a stout crust formed by a 1.5" rain event that soaked the upper snowpack December 7-8. These wind slabs and the unstable snow structure should be healing rapidly, but they may still propagate farther than you expect on Monday. You can trigger the wind slabs on steep, unsupported slopes just on the lee of ridgelines and above treeline. Check for the presence of >6" snow above a crust. Observe for warning signs such as cracking, or settling of the snow under your feet as you travel and firm or punchy snow layers. Observe how it changes as you ascend in the terrain. If the snow changes character quickly, you may be encountering a wind slab or wind-affected snow. Move to lower angle slopes or lower elevations to avoid this problem.

Below the stout December 7-8 crust, there are no layers of concern.

Warm, windy, and wet weather from early December took its toll on the snowpack, significantly eroding cover on steep southerly slopes and along exposed ridges where the grass was recently exposed. Some of these surfaces now have a very shallow layer of snow cover. You may notice many obstacles reemerging. Give yourself extra time to deal with the challenging conditions and navigating around obstacles.

2020-21 Forecast Schedule: Avalanche danger ratings will be issued for the Olympics every Friday through Sunday and during mid-week holidays. During the week when the Hurricane Ridge road is closed, forecast information will be updated daily to include expected conditions and relevant travel advice under the No Rating label.  

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.