Snoqualmie Pass

Travel conditions and an early-season snowpack continue to dominate the story in the mountains. That said, a rogue avalanche in this unusual weather may not be out of the question. The Pass should start to transition from warm and dry to a bit wetter on Monday evening.

Sunday was a December scorcher at upper elevations around the Pass.  Temperatures reached the mid-40s, continuing a stretch of days above freezing. Although we will slowly start to cool, anticipate the unseasonably warm weather to continue a bit longer.  Monday night and Tuesday, we expect precipitation to return with a mix of rain, freezing rain, and snow.

Unusual weather can lead to unusual avalanches. If you're going to encounter an avalanche problem on Monday, it will most likely be from blocks of snow shedding from rocky faces. They can fail without warning in the warm weather. Don’t linger under cliffs still holding snow patches.

Variable conditions exist throughout the zone. You could encounter firm\icy surfaces, breakable crust, wet snow, frozen tracks, old avalanche debris, and irregular rain runnels. Early-season obstacles such as flowing creeks, open holes, downed logs, shrubs, trees, and rocks could lead to difficult travel. 

That said, snowmobilers in the Crystal Springs area have recently reported fun riding conditions with adequate coverage, while skiers have had enjoyable turns on high-elevation shaded slopes. Snowshoers have used the nice weather and generally low avalanche concerns to visit peaks typically off-limits this time of year.

Are you out and about? Please send us some pictures of what you're up to by submitting an observation.