Avalanche forecast

Olympics

Northwest Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Fri
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
1 · Low
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Highlights

Fresh wind slabs will develop Wednesday night below ridgelines.  Steer around steep open slopes where you find freshly drifted snow.  In less wind-affected snow, rollerballs or small wet loose avalanches will run on very steep sunny slopes.  

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1

    New snow along with moderate winds Wednesday afternoon and night will move snow onto lee slopes near and above treeline.  Use caution around steep open slopes where you find freshly drifted snow.  This is a typical storm system for the Olympics so you can use existing cornices as a marker; slopes with overhanging cornices, likely NW -N - E aspects, are the most likely suspects for new wind slabs.  You can test the bond of the new snow to the old snow surface (likely a crust) on small test slopes before entering more consequential terrain. 

    It's spring-time so any amount of sunshine following new snow means rollerballs and small wet loose avalanches will run on very steep sunny slopes.  If the storm drops more snow than forecast,  keep wet loose avalanches on your mind.  Switch to lower angle terrain or shadier slopes if find yourself sinking in more than ankle deep into wet snow.   

    Example: You may trigger a shallow wind slab below ridgelines on Thursday.

Avalanche Discussion

Wind and snow picked up late Wednesday afternoon in the Hurricane Ridge area as a storm moved into the region.  2-5 inches of new snow is likely by morning with moderate SW ridgeline winds.  New snow will build over a crust (4/7) on nearly all aspects and elevations. This storm marks the transition from our recent spring pattern of mild days and cool nights to a more winter-like pattern Wednesday through the weekend.  Keep an eye on upcoming storm totals and the avalanche danger as we head into the weekend. 

The snowpack is in great shape for early April with a deep snowpack and good coverage.  

Are you out in the Olympics?  Let us and the backcountry community know what you see and Submit an Observation. 

Spring Forecast Schedule:  NWAC will issue a danger rating every day for the Olympics beginning Friday, April 2nd  - Sunday, April 18th. 

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.

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