Avalanche forecast

West Slopes Central

Northwest Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Fri
Alpine
4 · High
Treeline
4 · High
Below
3 · Considerable
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Highlights

Very dangerous avalanche conditions have developed in the West Central as a result of an intense winter storm.  Avoid avalanche terrain at mid and upper elevations and limit your exposure to large avalanche paths where natural avalanches may run, start or stop.

Avalanche problems

  • Storm Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Very Likely
    Size
    2

    Updated Thursday morning to High Danger Near and Above Treeline.

    Natural and human triggered avalanches were reported in nearby zones on Wednesday. Propagation was extensive, and some avalanches were remotely triggered. Expect similar conditions in this zone on Thursday with storm slab avalanches running on the 12/29 interface and another foot of snow added since. 

    Stay on your toes because the snowpack could remain touchy or even become more reactive with the additional snowfall.  Monday's avalanches occurred all the way down to the 12/21 crust on northerly aspects above 5000ft. Continue keeping tabs on this layer, now buried 2-3ft down and there are uncertainties about whether we may still see avalanches on it. The thickest and most reactive slabs will exist on leeward slopes at mid to upper elevations.  Avoid these areas and seek out conservative lower-angled terrain away from avalanche path runout zones while the storm continues.

    One of the many slab avalanches triggered by backcountry users in the West North zone on Monday. Photo: Colin Wiseman

Avalanche Discussion

Several avalanches have been triggered in the last few days in nearby zones and people have been caught. Luckily all escaped unharmed. Thursday is a day to dial back your terrain choices as we take a brief pause in the current storm cycle. 

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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