Avalanche forecast

West Slopes North

Northwest Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Wed
Alpine
4 · High
Treeline
3 · Considerable
Below
3 · Considerable
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Out of date — this forecast expired 6 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Very dangerous avalanche conditions will continue Tuesday. New snow and wind will likely cause natural avalanches at upper elevations. Expect widespread and reactive slabs and choose simple terrain away from overhead hazard.

Avalanche problems

  • Storm Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Very Likely
    Size
    2–3

    This is a prolonged and heavy loading event, and the snowpack needs time to adjust. Avalanches are most likely to fail within new and wind drifted snow, but deeper layers continue to be tested by ongoing precipitation. Very large avalanches could break several feet thick and run full track to valley bottom. Avoid travel on or below open slopes 35 degrees and steeper, and steer clear of avalanche path runout zones. Gather information as you travel and carefully assess the snowpack watching for shooting cracks, collapses, and recent avalanches. Only venture out during the storm if you are confident in your ability to identify and avoid avalanche terrain. Southerly winds are forecast to increase throughout the day, and fresh wind loading will likely cause natural avalanches in leeward upper elevation terrain. Another front will arrive by Tuesday afternoon, increasing snowfall rates and adding to the impressive storm totals (4-5ft since Saturday).

     

    (12/31/20) A recent snowboarder-triggered avalanche that broke 1-2ft deep on a NE aspect at 4900ft. Photo: Jake Little

Avalanche Discussion

Observers in the Mt. Baker area reported widespread and touchy storm slabs Monday breaking 4-8in deep within new snow and deeper on the 01/03 interface. Avalanches had wide propagation and some were even triggered sympathetically. Observations above treeline have been limited during this intense multi-day storm cycle where rounds of larger natural avalanche activity likely occurred. The Heather Meadows weather station recorded an impressive 10in of water since the start of the new year bringing total snow depths above 4000ft to 10-12ft+. Rain below 3500ft caused significant melting of an already shallow low-elevation snowpack. In addition to very dangerous avalanche conditions, non-avalanche hazards exist including tree well and deep snow immersion. Find out more information about deep snow safety HERE.

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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