Snoqualmie Pass

Continued warming at the middle and upper elevations may increase the potential for snow to shed off cliffs and rocks onto travelers below, so don't linger below steep rocky features in the sun. Challenging travel conditions may still pose the greatest hazard as you navigate variable and sometimes very slick surfaces. Steep south-facing slopes may soften into nice corn in the afternoon and sheltered north-facing terrain still holds soft recycled snow, though getting to and from these slopes requires some tricky travel.  

The effects of the warmup finally began to show on Saturday, especially above the inversion around 4500', where snow professionals and recreationists noted softening on south-facing slopes. Sunday's sunny skies and increasing temperatures should further soften sunny slopes at the middle and upper elevations. Below the inversion, expect continued cold temperatures and minimal improvement in the surface conditions. While we think wet avalanches are still unlikely on Sunday, they are more likely than they were on Saturday. Our biggest concern is overhead hazard such as blobs of snow shedding off cliffs or rocks, cornice fall, or glide avalanches. Numerous glide cracks were observed on the north face of Chair Peak and we suspect that other terrain is holding these unpredictable beasts as well. Be alert to what is above you, don't linger below rocks in the sun, glide cracks, or cornices, and travel one at a time if you need to cross under these features. Human-triggered wet loose avalanches are unlikely and should be small in size. Still, pay attention to the telltale signs of wet avalanche danger such as rollerballs, pinwheels, and sinking into wet snow past your boot tops. Should you see any of these signs, don’t linger on or below steep slopes and switch to a more shaded aspect. Looking forward to Monday, the cumulative effects of continued warming could further increase the avalanche danger. If you are out on Sunday, please submit an observation to help us hone Monday's forecast.

Now for the surface conditions. Some east and west-facing slopes have a bit more of a breakable crust and may not soften much during the day, while steep south-facing slopes could start to develop some corn/pseudo-corn skiing in the afternoon. Many sheltered north-facing slopes have an enjoyable travel surface of weak surface hoar and facets. The challenge is getting to or from sheltered north or steep south. Not every slope in the sun will soften and surface conditions depend on the complex interplay of timing, elevation, slope angle, and aspect. Below the tree canopy, refrozen tree bombs, sheet ice, and detritus make for a real slog. Traveling on foot with traction devices may be the most efficient, easiest, and safest option for forest ascents. Descending off-trail through the forest is not recommended unless you are sure conditions have softened. Traction aids like boot/ski crampons are an advisable part of your kit, even if you don’t wind up using them.