Avalanche Forecast

Several wind slab avalanches (size 1 to 2) were observed on north aspects, typically below cornices and in thin rocky features. Evidence from last weekend (wet loose and slab avalanches) continued to be reported from steep, south-facing slopes in the alpine.

Outside the region, large persistent slabs were observed out of moraine features with shallow faceted snowpack.

Consider submitting to the Mountain Information Network if you have been in the backcountry.

Wind has redistributed recent snow, forming pressed surfaces and wind slabs in open terrain while leaving 15-30 cm of soft snow in sheltered areas. Wind slabs may be more predominant on the east side of White Pass where the wind hit harder. A breakable melt-freeze crust covers most solar slopes.

A buried surface hoar or crust layer, 40 to 60 cm deep, is variable in distribution and has produced some test results. Similarly, a December crust with facets, 100 to 150 cm deep on all aspects up to 1750 m, has shown no significant test results.

Snow depth ranges from 100 cm at highway elevations to over 300 cm in the alpine.

Tuesday Night

Mostly clear. 20 to 40 km/h northwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -12 °C. Freezing level at valley bottom.

Wednesday

Mix of sun and cloud. 15 to 30 km/h northwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -2 °C. Freezing level 1200 m.

Thursday

Mix of sun and cloud. 20 to 40 km/h west ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -2 °C. Freezing level 1200 m.

Friday

Mostly cloudy with isolated flurries. 40 to 60 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -2 °C. Freezing level 1200 m.

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

• Avalanche activity is unlikely when a thick melt-freeze crust is present on the snow surface.
• Use caution above cliffs and terrain traps where even small avalanches may have severe consequences.
• Pay attention to cornices and give them a wide berth when traveling on or below ridges.