Olympics

While the upper snowpack remains strong, the surface remains susceptible to spring-like temperature fluctuations. As surface crusts break down, monitor for new rollerballs and sticky snow. Move to colder aspects or lower-angle slopes to avoid getting caught off guard in higher consequence terrain.

The Olympics received around 6” of snow over the weekend with strong SW winds on Sunday. Since this snow fell, the total snowpack has settled around 3". Mostly sunny skies Monday and Tuesday combined with above freezing temperatures on Tuesday may have resulted in a natural loose wet avalanche cycle. On Wednesday, the likelihood of loose wet avalanches should trend lower with increased cloud cover offsetting milder temperatures. Continue to monitor snow surface conditions. You are likely to find firm surfaces that create difficult travel on aspects that received direct sunshine. These crusts will break down with warming daytime temperatures. If you find wet snow you can sink into up to your ankle, you can trigger a wet loose avalanche. Don't let such an avalanche catch you off guard in high-consequence terrain.

If you travel to higher elevation shaded aspects, keep your eyes peeled for pockets of wind drifted snow. While these slabs are slowly gaining strength, keep them on your mind for another day or two. Strong southerly winds during the storm likely formed slabs up to a foot thick on the lee sides of ridges and exposed features. Look for drifts and textured snow surfaces to help anticipate which aspects could harbor wind-loaded snow. Steer around steep rocky slopes where these lingering wind slabs may still exist. 

Below the surface, the snowpack remains generally cold and “winter-like.” You can still identify layers from recent storms and crusts. Even though the weather may feel like spring, the snowpack has not yet made the transition. As we go through this warm period, remember that cornices will become weak and may fail. Snow could shed from rocks and cliffs. And, difficult to predict glide avalanches may occur.  Don’t allow a springtime mindset to shortcut your decision-making process on where and how to travel.

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.