Avalanche forecast

West Slopes Central

Northwest Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

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Out of date — this forecast expired 6 years ago.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

Highlights

Keep glide avalanches on your radar for one more day.  Snow conditions will be variable and icy after the rain and cooling.  A few inches of new snow fell at higher elevations, not enough to increase the avalanche hazard but keep an eye out for small avalanches along steep ridgelines.

Avalanche problems

  • Glide Cracks

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

    Temperatures are cooling, but the glide avalanche problem is not yet ready to be laid to rest. They happen when water lubricates  steep areas which have a smooth bed surface (ground) such as bedrock or grass.  They are very difficult to predict, but cracks, which usually form first, are a good indicator. Watch for deep cracks in the snow in steep areas, usually with ground visible at the bottom. Stay off large, unsupported slopes, or areas where you see these cracks and any slopes with similar characteristics nearby. These cracks might be hidden by a few inches of snow, but that does not mean that the snowpack is not wet underneath. 

     

    Glide cracks like this could turn into a glide avalanche.

Avalanche Discussion

We’ve received nearly 2 inches of rain in the West Central zone in the last two days.  Cooling has begun, but glide avalanches require a day or two with below freezing temperatures and no rain before the risk is gone.  Continue to give suspect slopes a wide berth for another day. Snow conditions could be variable and icy as we transition to cooler temperatures, but at upper elevations you may find a few inches of new snow on top. 

The snow base in the West Central zone is ranging from 35-60 inches, and the snow line is at about 3000ft.  Remember that it is still early season and there are plenty of obstacles such as hidden logs, rocks, streams, and variable snow conditions at lower elevations. 

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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