Avalanche forecast

West Slopes Central

Northwest Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Mon
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Out of date — this forecast expired 6 years ago.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

New snow and southeast winds will likely form fresh drifts in leeward alpine terrain by the end of the day Sunday. Triggering small loose snow avalanches remains possible on steep unsupported slopes. Travel conditions may still be challenging with early-season obstacles and a slippery crust under the shallow new snow.  

Avalanche problems

  • Loose Dry

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1

    Triggering small loose snow avalanches is possible in steep, unsupported terrain Sunday. Expect a few more inches of low-density snow atop a firm and slick crust formed earlier in the week. Although loose snow avalanches may not be big enough to bury you, they could run far and fast downslope or knock you off your feet. Even a small avalanche could have high consequences in extreme terrain. 

    Example of a small dry loose avalanche.

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alpine
    • Treeline
    • Below treeline
    Likelihood
    Possible
    Size
    1

    You may be able to trigger an avalanche in wind drifted snow on slopes greater than 35 degrees high in the alpine. Monitor changing conditions as new snow accumulates Sunday. Look for recent deposits of wind-blown snow near ridge crests, in gullies, and unsupported slopes. Pay attention as you transition into wind affected terrain. Watch for cracking in the recent snow as a sign of instability, and look for sudden changes in snow surface texture and hardness. Remember that even a small avalanche can have severe consequences if it carries you through rocks or trees. When in doubt, default to lower angle terrain. 

    Example of shooting cracks in wind drifted snow.

Avalanche Discussion

An incoming storm will bring windy conditions overnight Saturday before dying down as snowfall begins early Sunday and continues through the day. You may encounter low danger in the morning, but watch for conditions to change as new snow accumulates. Observers in the West Central Zone found surface hoar and weak snow on the surface on Saturday. It remains to be seen how well preserved it is when the snow starts falling on Sunday. The early season snowpack that was looking healthy for November has shrunk down in early December and melted quite a bit, so early-season hazards should be expected. Keep an eye out for open creeks, talus fields, buried logs, and small trees.

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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