Avalanche forecast

Stevens Pass

Northwest Avalanche Center
View on map

Avalanche danger

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Out of date — this forecast expired 6 years ago.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

Highlights

Recent winds from all directions have created slabs that remain possible to trigger. Look and listen for signs of instability such as shooting cracks and whumphing collapses as you travel. Continue to treat steep slopes with firm or hollow sounding snow with respect. 

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1–2

    Wind slabs can be found on all aspects, and in pockety distribution at all elevations. On Wednesday observers noticed plumes from ridgelines indicating wind transport from South and East winds. You may find these slabs on any exposed slopes. Wind slabs may become more connected and thicker as you ascend in elevation. Look for signs of instability such as shooting cracks and whumphing as you travel. Prior to this recent storm, a variety of snow surfaces existed including surface hoar that could now be buried under a slab. This is a good time to dig lots of quick pits to evaluate how wind slabs are bonding, and to look for a potential weak layers underneath.

    Identify recently loaded features, and observe for cracking or whumphing in the snow as you travel. If you do observe these signs of instability, dial back your terrain choices significantly. 

    (12/2/2020) South-easterly winds continued to load NW aspects at the top of the Swath's start zone on Tuesday.

Avalanche Discussion

Observers reported no obvious signs of instability on Wednesday, but some slabs resting on weaker snow keep the danger heightened. Plumes were observed coming off ridgelines in the area with constant drifting and transporting of snow at upper elevations. On Tuesday, an observer reported a large collapse on a windslab below treeline near Skyline Ridge. We are still keeping our guards up as we enter higher elevation terrain due to surface hoar that was observed in the east side of the zone prior to the last snowfall. Observers have identified a snowpack with a favorable hardness profile and good stability in the mid and lower pack. 

On steep slopes that escaped the wind, the sun may warm the snow through the clouds enough to create small wet loose slides. If you notice rollerballs, wet sticky snow surfaces then be sure to avoid steep slopes on that aspect.

While the snowpack around the Pass is impressive for the beginning of December (40-60”/105-150cm), plenty of early-season obstacles still exist. Watch for open creeks, buried logs, and numerous small trees that may block your path.

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