Olympics

A brief period of moderate NW winds will transport several inches of fresh low-density snowfall onto atypical aspects, refreshing slabs you can trigger. In less wind-affected areas, when the sun comes out, prepare for small loose avalanches on steep southerly aspects. Just a week ago most southerly aspects were bare, amplifying the risk of a small avalanche.

Wednesday was dry, sunny, and cold at Hurricane Ridge and the winds were light. The northern side of the Olympics should get some upslope snowfall as NNW winds accompany a moisture-starved system. We're expecting 2-3" of new and very-low-density snow that should be easy for moderate ridgeline winds to form fresh drifts on southerly and easterly aspects. 

The previous storm brought 8-10" of low-density snow to Hurricane Ridge Saturday evening through Monday morning. Winds during this storm had a northerly component and formed drifts on similar atypical aspects. A strong cooling trend produced a generally right-side-up snowpack layering with a good bond to the 2/19 crust where present. 

Avalanche considerations:

• Given the atypical wind loading patterns, you'll need to use visual clues to discern potential slab locations. Watch for sharp, fresh cornices along ridgelines and thicker snow above the 2/19 crust to confirm the location of potential slabs. If you find firm over weak snow layering, cracking surfaces, or wind-textured/hollow-feeling snow, avoid steep wind-loaded slopes nearby.
• Most snow you encounter should be less impacted by the wind. In these areas, loose snow avalanches should be on your mind. With cold temperatures in place through Thursday, shaded aspects should stay dry - the upper snowpack may begin to lose strength under cold, clear skies. In these areas, expect fast-running dry loose avalanches in steep terrain. Steep S-facing slopes may or may not start the day with a thin crust, but should start warming as the clouds dissipate during the day. Pay attention to rocky outcrops on the slopes above you that might start shedding snow to form loose avalanches in the surface snow. 

NWAC and NPS staff traveled around the Hurricane Ridge area 02/17 and 02/18.  Unusually dry and warm conditions in January and the first half of February exposed bare ground on many W and S aspects. Photos from these outings remain in the media gallery to remind you of the landscape prior to the snowfall and how the new snow may just be enough to mask shallowly submerging rocks or stumps - or magnify the risk of a small avalanche. Also, take your time navigating shallow snowpack areas or creeks in the valley bottoms.

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.