Snoqualmie Pass

Even as temperatures warm and the sun pops out Friday, we don’t expect much in the way of wet avalanche danger. However, variable snow surfaces and plenty of exposed obstacles could make even common travel routes more adventurous.

“Variable” seems to be the most common word to describe conditions at the Pass right now. Friday’s weather probably won’t do much to change that. Rising temperatures and filtered sunshine could soften steeper southerly slopes, but it shouldn’t create significant wet avalanche issues. However, the one to two inches of new snow from Thursday could produce a few piles of small rollerballs. 

Lower Elevations: Last week’s rain took its toll on the snowpack. Open creeks, downed logs, and numerous trees/shrubs make travel quite challenging. In some places, the snow surface may be frozen; in others, wet and punchy. Since the snow is so “beat up,” even some warm weather won’t make much difference. 

Middle Elevations: Freezing rain and icy conditions were reported from both the Alpental Valley and near Stampede Pass Thursday. These elevations probably have the greatest variability. Expect breakable crusts, icy slopes, wet snow, and even an inch or so of fresh snow. The snowpack is thicker (3-4ft), and coverage is a bit better in this band.

Upper Elevations: If you’re going to find an avalanche on Friday, this is probably where it will be at upper elevations. Firm slopes dotted with a few small pockets of dry snow could produce rollerballs or an isolated wet loose slide on steep southerly aspects. In shaded terrain, this same dry snow could form wind-drifted pockets. While avalanche concerns should be few and far between, with so many exposed obstacles, even a tiny slide could result in injuries or death. 

Not surprisingly, the combination of variable snow conditions and thin early-season coverage makes for tricky travel. Go slowly and give yourself extra time to deal with these added travel challenges.