Avalanche forecast

Stevens Pass

Northwest Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Fri
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Out of date — this forecast expired 8 months ago.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

Merry Christmas! Wind-drifted snow that you encounter as you climb higher is your main avalanche concern on Christmas Day. Search for thicker, heavier drifts along ridgelines and around terrain features such as rocky outcrops and convex rolls. Steer around these drifts on steep slopes. 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

    Low density surface snow was probably affected by wind at mid and upper elevations on Wednesday. These wind-drifted pockets may not have had enough time to adjust yet, so it's possible that you can trigger an avalanche on them.  

    Identify actively drifting snow and avoid those areas on steep slopes. Drifts tend to form on the leeward side of ridges, around convex rolls and features, and in gullies. Search for "red-flag" signs of instability, such as recent avalanches, blowing snow, and cracks shooting through the snow. Steer around cornices and wind-loaded deposits on steep slopes so you can make it home for Christmas dinner. 

    Example photo: Wind drifted snow around features like rock outcroppings, where it's more likely you can trigger an avalanche. Note the wind transported snow visible in this photo. 

Avalanche Discussion

Around 3" of water, or possibly 3 feet of snow at higher elevations, has fallen since our last warmup and crust formation occurred on 12/18. The crust may not exist at upper elevations.  At lower elevations, Christmas Eve's warm spell is likely resulting in the next surface crust. Very wind-affected snow likely exists up high. 

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 to stop and evaluate, what could happen if this avalanches when I'm on it?  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.

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