Stevens Pass

While avalanches are unlikely, it's a good idea to keep the slim chance of wet avalanches and falling cornices in mind. A variety of snow conditions, including firm, icy surfaces will make travel challenging. Consider the consequences of an uncontrolled fall, and bring appropriate equipment to manage the risk.

With no official avalanche problems and avalanches unlikely, the biggest hazards may be those inherent to mountain travel. With the current firm snow surfaces, a slip in steep terrain could turn into an uncontrolled fall. You can prevent this by planning your route and anticipating places in the terrain that could be an issue. You can also bring equipment like crampons or ski crampons to provide traction.

Wet avalanches and cornice falls, while unlikely, are worth keeping in mind. If sun-exposed slopes become wet, and slide easily, move to more shaded or lower-angled terrain. If traveling on a ridge, stay far from the edge and don't stand on overhung cornices. Be aware of cornices that could be looming overhead. Take care to minimize your time and exposure under cornices. Stop and regroup in locations free of overhead hazard.

With a chance for snow in the not-too-distant future, take time to track the different surfaces and note which ones could be weak layers if buried. You can let us know what you see by submitting an observation.