East Slopes South

Avalanche conditions are generally safe, but still use caution near upper elevation wind-drifted slopes. You could still encounter isolated pockets of unstable drifted snow in these areas. Plenty of hidden hazards remain, so don't let a small avalanche ruin your day. 

This past system was not much of a producer for the eastern Cascades. You likely just encountered a few flurries or misty rain showers at lower elevations. Sunday will start a drying and clearing trend that should persist into the work-week for much of the region. 

Observations have been sparse across the East South recently. Observers from neighboring zones like the West South have reported lingering instabilities in wind-drifted snow and poor structure on more shaded aspects in the East Central. We have uncertainty regarding the snowpack structure in the east-south, but we suspect similar conditions could be present. The best policy will be to ease into the terrain slowly with an assessment mindset.  You can use quick hand pits or small test slopes to check on the current structure. Look for signs on instability, like strong over weak layering before committing to larger slopes. 

A few things to keep in mind during this period of low danger:

• Even with low danger, you can still encounter avalanche problems in isolated areas. The most probable place is wind-loaded pockets at upper elevations. While less likely, some isolated slabs could break in surprising ways if they rest on surface hoar, facets, or recently buried crusts. Travel cautiously near large slopes by only exposing one person at a time, and look for signs of instability before committing to larger terrain features. Shooting cracks or audible whumphs under your feet or sled are obvious signs of instability. 
• Early season conditions still exist across much of the zone. Look for hidden hazards such as downed trees, stumps, creeks, and rocks. 
• You don't need a large avalanche to ruin your day. Even a small avalanche can have dire consequences in the wrong terrain - especially during early season conditions like we have right now. 

If you get out, let us know what you see by submitting a public observation.