Avalanche forecast

Stevens Pass

Northwest Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Sat
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
1 · Low
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Out of date — this forecast expired 6 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

You may still be able to trigger avalanches near and above treeline where the wind has drifted stiff slabs of snow. Use caution on slopes steeper than 35 degrees that have thickly pillowed or wind-sculpted features. You may encounter small loose avalanches on steep, wind-sheltered slopes.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    2

    You may be able to trigger large avalanches on leeward, wind-loaded slopes near and above treeline. Cornices, wind features, and firm wind-stiffened snow are all signs that the wind has drifted snow. Watch for signs that you could trigger an avalanche such as cracks shooting through the snow and other recent avalanches. Steer around convex roll-overs or thickly drifted features on slopes steeper than 35 degrees. Cornices have become large. Make sure to keep your distance by staying off of them and don't linger under them. 

    Over the weekend, westerly winds transported snow and formed slabs that are now older. On Thursday night into Friday eas winds may be strong enough to form fresh wind slabs just below ridges. Watch for signs of these new slabs.

    Wind features at the top of Highlands Bowl outside of Stevens Pass Mountain Resort on Jan 3rd. Photo: Josh Hirshberg

Avalanche Discussion

We’ve just come out of more than 8 days into a prolonged storm cycle at Stevens Pass. The Schmidt Haus weather station measured about 6.5" of snow water equivalent since December 29th.  Avalanches ran throughout the last week up to size D3. The most recent avalanches were point releases on steep, sunny slopes on Wednesday and Thursday. Slab avalanches within the storm snow occurred throughout the past week, but especially on the 2nd, 3rd, and 5th. Back on the 1st, wet avalanches occured after a rain event to about 5,000ft.

Falling in tree wells, deep snow immersion, and falling tree bombs are other hazards to consider. Be vigilant around tree wells, and stay close to your partner while traveling through the trees. 

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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