East Slopes South

Light snowfall trickling into the East South zone will build shallow drifts that you can trigger at upper elevations. Shifting winds during the storm will build slabs on a variety of aspects. Identify and navigate around active steep slopes under fresh, sharp cornices or where blowing snow forms drifts 6" or deeper.

After after a significant period of snowpack settlement, a wave of precipitation brought around an inch or two of snow to mid and upper elevation terrain Thursday evening, but that was unlikely to create much avalanche hazard. The new snow arrived at mild temperatures, helping it to bond with pre-existing crusts on most aspects. On cold, northerly slopes at the highest elevations, there remains a chance that the new snow could rest on small weak grains (facets). 

We expect several inches of additional snowfall with moderate winds and potentially strong gusts. The new snow will form shallow wind slabs which could create heightened avalanche conditions on steep and poorly supported slopes at upper elevations. Slabs may exist on a variety of aspects as the winds shift from S to W Friday night. Use your powers of observation to identify the signs of new and recent wind transport. If you ascend to upper elevations, make sure to check the new/old snow interface for weak and sugary snow crystals that could make these shallow slabs more reactive.

If the sun comes out and heats up any fresh snow, expect rollerballs and loose wet avalanches to initiate from rocks and trees. Adjust your aspect to colder, shaded aspects.

Non-avalanche hazards:

• Glide cracks have opened on steep, rocky slopes particularly at upper elevations. While cooler weather reduces the likelihood of a glide avalanche, continue to give these impressive features a wide margin for safety on the slopes above you.
• Cornices near the Cascade Crest are large and many have yet to fail, but may lean precariously as the recent mild temperatures take its toll. Give them a wide berth as you travel along ridgelines and on the slopes below.

We continue to track the mid-January crust-facet combo throughout the Cascades, but it appears dormant and we don't believe it poses a threat at this time.

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.