Avalanche forecast

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Northwest Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Mon
Alpine
2 · Moderate
Treeline
2 · Moderate
Below
1 · Low
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Highlights

Continued westerly winds and light snowfall are maintaining the danger of wind slabs at upper elevations. Use caution on steep slopes exposed to wind if you observe shooting cracks, thick and hollow slabs, or active wind transport. Steep slopes in direct sun may warm up enough to create small loose sluffs later in the day.

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1–1.5

    New snow, with colder temperatures and sustained strong winds are likely to have created slabs through Saturday night. Slabs may be thickest and larger at upper elevations, but you could stumble into small pockets near treeline.

    Look for active wind transport and areas of drifted snow as you climb in elevation. You may be able to easily identify slabs with surface texture. If you observe shooting cracks in drifted snow, then be sure to avoid steeper or consequential slopes. Consider areas that get enhanced wind loading such as steep slopes near low points on ridgelines, and cross drifted raised features mid-slope. Cornices may be fragile from recent growth, and could break under the weight of a person. Make sure to stay well away from the edge of them.

    Small wind slab example.

    Photo: Will Govus

Avalanche Discussion

Washington Pass has picked about 6" since Friday, and a few more may trickle in on Sunday. Winds should continue to blow, and wind slabs may thicken. On slopes that receive direct sun, the new snow may warm up enough to slide and entrain. Keep abreast of changing conditions during the day. Beneath the new snow, you'll likely find a recently formed, and frozen crust. This crust may be on the surface in windward areas or further east in the zone. Consider bringing traction tools for travel on these slick and/or icy surfaces. 

Roughly 2-3 ft of snow accumulated near the Cascade crest earlier this week with strong westerly ridgeline winds during a significant spring snow storm.  WSDOT crews reported a few large avalanches (up to D2.5) that hit the road near the Pass on Tuesday.  Wet loose avalanches up to D2 were observed Wednesday and Thursday. SR 20 is currently gated at Silverstar. With road clearing operations underway midweek and professional operations in the area spinning down for the season, your observations are needed. If you're out in the mountains, let us know what you see. 

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