Avalanche forecast

Stevens Pass

Northwest Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Wed
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
1 · Low
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Out of date — this forecast expired 8 months ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

You may be able to trigger avalanches in recently drifted snow immediately below ridges at middle and upper elevations. Steer around cornices, thick pillows of snow, and choose wind-sheltered terrain. Due to limited information, access, and resources, keep your travel and terrain selection conservative.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1–2

    Avalanches are most likely at upper elevations and on leeward slopes where you find recent wind-loading. Wind-stiffened slabs will be limited to immediately below ridges. Winds have, and may continue to, transport snow from both east and westerly directions. Watch for "red-flag" signs of instability, such as recent avalanches, blowing snow, and cracks shooting through the snow. Steer around cornices and wind-loaded pillows on slopes steeper than 35 degrees.

    While triggering avalanches on wind-sheltered slopes is unlikely, our confidence is still very low. Approach any terrain with an assessment mindset. Make frequent observations and choose conservative terrain. Daytime warming could make the snow more cohesive. If it slides easily, especially on a crust, consider this another "red flag" sign. We expect another 3" of snow with enough wind to drift snow at upper elevations. 

    (12/22/2025)

    A natural slab avalanche likely occurred on 12/21 in wind-drifted snow. Size D2. White Pine Cirque, NNE, 6,750ft. SS-N-R1-D2-S

    Photo: Josh Hirshberg

Avalanche Discussion

Storm totals from December 18-22nd exceeded 3 feet. On Monday, NWAC forecasters, in conjunction with highway and ski area workers, found 1.5-2.5 feet of recent snow over a crust from December 18th. They found significantly more recent snow above 5,000ft. Snowpack tests at 5,300ft found a poor bond on the crust from the 18th. East wind transported snow after previous westerly winds. It was limited to ridges. Further east of the zone, observers in the Little Wenatchee drainage, Round Mtn, and Dirty Face Mtn report 1.5-2 feet of recent snow over the crust. At upper elevations, we expect more storm totals and recent wind drifts. 

Access to the Stevens Pass zone is closed via both sides of Highway 2 due to road damage. When you add recent power outages and bare bones observations, we have very limited information about the snowpack. To mitigate this increased uncertainty, make frequent observations using quick hand-pit tests and take extra time before entering larger terrain. Please be patient while WSDOT crews work to reopen the highway.

State and local resources are working diligently to reduce the impacts of destructive storms that occurred earlier this month. We can help by respecting affected communities, complying with road closures, and adhering to ski area uphill travel policies.

Regions covered