Avalanche forecast

East Slopes Central

Northwest Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Sun
Alpine
1 · Low
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
1 · Low
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Highlights

Shallow windslabs may develop near alpine ridgelines late in the day, especially in the southern part of the zone such as the Salmon la Sac. Small loose avalanches could be triggered where you find more than 4" of new snow over a crust. Conditions may be icy on steep slopes, with dust on crust conditions. 

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Unlikely
    Size
    1

    As the next storm makes its way in, southeasterly winds are forecast to increase into the afternoon. In areas such as the Salmon la Sac and Teanaway there may be enough low density snow to begin creating isolated pockets of windslab by the afternoon. These may be reactive, as they may not bond very well with a refrozen crust underneath. If you find more than 4" of new snow with signs of wind drifting, be careful of entering slopes with consequences. The most likely areas to find these shallow slabs will be above treeline, and right near ridgelines and cornice features. If you find signs of instability, such as shooting cracks in thicker snow, those are further clues to stay off consequential steeps. 

    If you do come across 4" or more inches of snow over the crust, be aware of sluffing. Recent observations from nearby zones found small loose dry avalanches to run easily on steep slopes. The sun may warm the snow enough to encourage these small slides on steep south facing slopes by late morning. I wouldn't expect these to pack much of a punch, but it's worth consideration before entering extreme or ice climbing terrain. 

    'Plumes' such as these are direct signs of wind drifting.

Avalanche Discussion

About an inch or two of low density snow fell Thursday night into Friday with minimal wind. This sits on an icy and refrozen crust from December 9th. Take note what you find above this crust as we head into the next storm cycle. By Sunday morning, there will be fresh snow on the ground, and avalanche danger increases.

Conditions may be icy, and difficult to travel through with a breakable crust in some places. Expect shallow snow cover at low elevations and bare ground particularly on low south-facing slopes. Typical early season hazards can be expected with open creeks, stumps and rocks. 

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.

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