Olympics

The snowpack will need some time to adjust to the atmospheric river event that we just endured, so make conservative terrain choices on Tuesday. If you travel to elevations that did not see rain during this event, expect larger and more dangerous avalanches.

As we wrap up this atmospheric river event and freezing levels begin to drop, don’t overlook the rapid changes the snowpack has just gone through. It will take some time for the snowpack to adjust and stabilize. Be leery of steep slopes over 35 degrees, leeward slopes near ridgelines, convex rollovers, or rocky areas near cliffs or gullies where triggering an avalanche is more likely. Above the rain/snow line, you will be mostly concerned with new snow problems such as Storm Slabs and Wind Slabs. Below the rain/snow line, you may be dealing with lingering wet snow problems such as Wet Loose, Wet Slab, or even Glide avalanches. Near ridgelines, cornices may have been freshly built by wind and new snow or destabilized by the rain, so give them a wide berth. When in doubt, default to slopes less than 35 degrees regardless of your elevation.

We have been tracking some deeper persistent weak layers throughout the Olympics and the Cascades for almost a month now. Observations this past weekend show that these layers still exist near Hurricane Ridge, but appear to be healing slowly. There have not been any confirmed avalanches on these layers in the last two weeks, but we do not have any direct information about what may have happened during this atmospheric river event. Approach large open slopes or areas of the Olympics away from Hurricane Ridge with suspicion and these layers in mind. Take some time to dig down and look for their existence and let us know what you find by submitting a public observation. If a slide were to occur on these layers, it would be very large and destructive. 

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.