Avalanche forecast

Olympics

Northwest Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Sun
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
1 · Low
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Highlights

Wind slabs linger in upper elevation avalanche start zones. Choose lower-angle slopes and more sheltered terrain if you encounter stiff, wind-affected snow as you ascend.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1–1.5

    Not enough new snow fell Friday to add to older wind slabs, so most of the wind slabs are stubborn slabs that linger above treeline.  Consistently monitor the snow for signs of wind effect as you ascend. These include punchy layers, textured snow, sharp cornice-like features, and cracking as you travel. If you encounter such snow conditions, choose lower-angle slopes in more wind-sheltered areas.  

    (2/1/2022)

    A small wind loaded test slope that cracks is a clear sign to steer clear of steep wind-loaded slopes nearby. 

    Photo: Dallas Glass

Avalanche Discussion

We don't think there's enough new snow to warrant an official wet loose avalanche problem. However, if you do find 2" or more of unconsolidated dry snow on W-S-E aspects, rapidly warming temperatures combined with direct sunshine will destabilize the surface snow. Adjust your aspect before rollerballs start gaining steam. These are only likely to be consequential where they involve a terrain trap such as a creek and in steep/extreme terrain. 

On Thursday, observers found about 4-6" of snow (Sun/Mon) sitting above the firm late January crust in the Hurricane Ridge area.  As temperatures warmed briefly above freezing on Thursday  afternoon with mostly cloudy skies and occasional spits of light rain or snow,  snow surfaces became wet or moist and several small wet loose avalanches ran surprisingly long distances above the crust.  Wet loose avalanches were noted on northerly aspects releasing from steep cliffs and were also skier triggered on steeper southerly slopes.  Below the late January crust a strong and well-settled snowpack exists. 

2021-22 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.

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