Avalanche forecast

West Slopes Central

Northwest Avalanche Center
View on map

Avalanche danger

Wed
Alpine
3 · Considerable
Treeline
3 · Considerable
Below
2 · Moderate
Open full map
Out of date — this forecast expired 6 years ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

The snowpack still needs time to adjust to recent heavy loading from snow, wind, and rain. You can easily trigger avalanches on slopes 35 degrees and steeper, and the possibility of natural avalanches at upper elevations still lingers. Expect rising danger by afternoon as precipitation rates and winds increase. 

Avalanche problems

  • Storm Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Likely
    Size
    2–3

    Avalanches are most likely to fail within new and wind drifted snow, but deeper layers continue to be tested by ongoing precipitation. Southerly winds are forecast to increase throughout the day, and fresh wind loading will likely create the thickest and most reactive slabs in leeward upper elevation terrain. Another front will arrive by Tuesday afternoon, increasing snowfall rates and adding to the impressive storm totals (4ft+ since Saturday). Gather information as you travel and carefully assess the snowpack watching for shooting cracks, collapses, and recent avalanches. Use small slope tests and hand-pits to look for weak layers in the new snow. Choose supported and lower angled terrain and minimize your exposure to large avalanche path runout zones. 

     

    (12/31/20) A recent snowboarder-triggered avalanche that broke 1-2ft deep on a NE aspect at 4900ft. Photo: Jake Little

Avalanche Discussion

Numerous natural and human-triggered avalanches were reported Sunday and Monday in adjacent zones, the majority of which failed within the most recent layers of new and wind drifted snow. Observations above treeline have been limited during this intense multi-day storm cycle where rounds of larger natural avalanche activity likely occurred. Precipitation since the new year began has been impressive with copious amounts of rain and snow (over 10in of water recorded at Mt. Baker). Weather stations throughout the NWAC network report snow depths well over 100% of normal (Snow Depth Climatology). In addition to dangerous avalanche conditions, non-avalanche hazards exist including tree well and deep snow immersion. Find out more information about deep snow safety HERE.

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.

Regions covered