East Slopes South

Thursday will present a mix of avalanche hazards. At higher elevations, especially near ridge lines, expect that you can trigger a wind slab on lee slopes where you find wind accumulated snow. On sunny slopes, steeper than 35 degrees, you will be able to initiate loose wet avalanches by midmorning. Choose terrain under 35 degrees where you find the sun creating wet snow surfaces or snow drifted by the wind.

Small, but steady snow accumulations began to build fresh wind slabs over the last few days. Monday morning's snowfall allowed wind slabs to grow larger and deeper and Wednesday brought additional snow that will continue to grow any lingering wind slabs. Wind slabs and sensitive fresh cornices will create heightened avalanche conditions on steep and poorly supported slopes at upper and middle elevations. Strong and gusty winds have resulted in wind slabs in unusual locations and added to the possibility of low elevation wind slabs. Use your powers of observation to identify the signs of recently wind-transported snow. Look for actively blowing snow, pillow-like drifts, fresh cornices, and stiff or textured snow as a sign that you could trigger a wind slab avalanche. Steer around steep start zones and slopes over 35 degrees where you see these signs.

The sun will likely begin to shine by the afternoon and weaken the fresh snow surface. Slopes receiving direct sunshine will be likely places for you to trigger loose wet avalanches in terrain steeper than 35 degrees. Upper elevations will likely remain cool and limit the possibility of wet avalanches above treeline. However, the effect of the sun will be strong on the fresh snow. Look for signs of warming such as temperatures above freezing, rollerballs on the snow surface and trees dripping water, and shedding snow. Where you see these signs choose slopes less than 35 degrees or seek shadier aspects. Even small wet avalanches may run further and faster than you expect above the old melt-freeze crust from last week. Use extra caution near terrain traps such as cliffs and creeks.

Non-avalanche hazards:

• Glide cracks have opened on steep, rocky slopes particularly at upper elevations. While cooler weather reduces the likelihood of a glide avalanche, continue to give these impressive features a wide margin for safety on the slopes above you.
• Cornices near the Cascade Crest are large and many have yet to fail, but may lean precariously as the recent mild temperatures take its toll. Give them a wide berth as you travel along ridgelines and on the slopes below.

We continue to track the mid-January crust-facet combo throughout the Cascades, but it appears dormant and we don't believe it poses a threat at this time.

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.