East Slopes North

Isolated areas of shallow wind slab may exist above treeline, otherwise generally safe avalanche conditions are expected.  Expect variable snow surfaces and travel conditions Monday. 

If you travel above treeline Monday,  you may find isolated areas of firmer wind slab on lee slopes that formed late Saturday night and Sunday. Where you see fresh wind drifts, use caution on steep slopes with similar features.  Consider the consequences of a small avalanche near terrain traps like cliff bands.  

With sunshine and mild temperatures expected Monday,  steep south-facing slopes may become wet and punchy.  The chances of triggering a loose wet avalanche are low, but consider changing aspects if you start sinking into wet snow deeper than your boot top.  While wind-affected snow surfaces are more likely to be found in the Washington Pass area, in the southern portion of the zone that experienced more rain mid-week, you may find a firm and slick surface crust.  In these areas, make sure you can self-arrest a fall and avoid slopes where a slip could cause injury.  

From January 11th to 13th a major storm delivered heavy snow and even some rain at lower and mid-elevations to the region. The Harts Pass Snotel picked up about 2.7" of water over the event.  Very large and destructive avalanches ran through entire avalanche paths. The avalanche cycle occurred on the night of the 12th. Observers reported avalanches to at D3 in size (big enough to break mature timber and bury cars) including an avalanche that hit a closed portion of Highway 20, below Delancey Ridge. This avalanche ran over 3,000ft and formed debris piles that were 9 feet deep in places. 

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.