Olympics

Dangerous avalanche conditions may persist into Tuesday.  You're likely to trigger avalanches on steep open slopes where you find deeply drifted or firmer wind pressed snow.  Give the snowpack time to adjust after a significant storm impacted the area.   

The road closed to Hurricane Ridge Sunday morning due to whiteout conditions.  About 1.5-3" of water equivalent and 15-22" of snow was recorded in the Hurricane Ridge area Sunday through Monday afternoon.  S-SW winds were strong  Sunday and Sunday night and became more moderate on Monday.  A natural avalanche cycle may have occurred Sunday night during the heaviest snowfall rates.  You'll need to reassess your understanding of the snowpack in the Hurricane Ridge area following the recent storm and before engaging with consequential avalanche terrain.  Expect fresh cornices along ridgelines and give them a wide berth. 

Prior to this storm, observers noted a storm interface (preserved stellars) about 6" down that may become a failure point as the snowpack receives a prolonged loading event over the coming week.  Over the last 10 days of December, several cold storms dropped several feet of cold low density snow and produced superb conditions.   

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.