Avalanche forecast

East Slopes South

Northwest Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Wed
Alpine
1 · Low
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
1 · Low
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Highlights

On Tuesday, a minor storm will impact the region, bringing light snowfall and moderate winds. While it won't be quite enough to increase the avalanche hazard, you may find unstable pockets of wind-blown snow near ridges at upper elevations. The most significant hazard will still be challenging travel on steep icy surfaces. 

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Unlikely
    Size
    1–1.5

    While this storm may not be a strong snow producer, isolated wind slabs may develop at upper elevations towards the afternoon hours on Tuesday. Moderate winds will easily redistribute the new snow into shallow slabs on lee aspects. Much of the zone suffers from a thin snowpack, and you will likely find wind slabs to be isolated to areas closer to the Cascade crest, particularly in the HWY410 corridor, with a more substantial snowpack. Wind slabs are likely to remain small, but even small avalanches can have high consequences in extreme terrain. Use visual clues to identify wind-affected snow, such as textured surfaces and snow blowing off ridge tops. If you see signs of instability, such as shooting cracks or collapsing, consider traveling on low-angle routes.In neighboring zones, observers found weak snow on the surface. Wind slabs that form on these weak faceted snow grains may be particularly easy to trigger. You can easily dig down to identify the thick crust of the old snow surface and use quick hand pits to identify weak snow over stronger snow. If the new snow slides easily off of the old snow surface, avalanches are possible. 

     

    (12/28/2021)

    Example of wind textured surfaces.

    Photo: Joe Dellaporta

Avalanche Discussion

There is some uncertainty with snow totals associated with this storm, and the possibility exists of some upslope winds favoring the eastern slopes of the Cascades. If you find yourself sinking in more than 6in of fresh snow, it may be best to choose lower angle slopes. If enough snow accumulates, loose-dry avalanches may become possible in very steep terrain. Remember that terrain traps such as valley bottoms, cliffs, or melted-out obstacles will increase the risk of even a small avalanche. 

Most of the East South Zone suffers from inconsistent and low snow cover, and low elevation access is becoming increasingly challenging. Obstacles may get covered up by this new snow and lurk just below the surface and hidden from view. Travel cautiously, especially at lower elevations, to avoid impacts with rocks or stumps, and falls into holes. Expect variable surface conditions and challenging travel. However, the snowpack does increase as you gain elevation, especially on shady northern aspects. For more information on how our current snowpack compares to seasonal averages, check out the most recent Climatological Snow Depth Report. 

Regions covered