Avalanche Forecast

High

• The number, quality, or consistency of field observations is good, and supports our confidence.

A large, widespread natural avalanche cycle is ongoing. Wet avalanches have been observed at lower elevations, while storm, wind and persistent slab avalanches continue above. Avalanches have been running within the storm snow, and on buried weak layers, including the early January surface hoar and late December crust.

Another 30 to 50 cm of storm snow is expected by Monday evening, raising storm totals to 90 to 170 cm. Storm snow has been redistributed by strong southerly winds, and is settling rapidly due to warm temperatures. At treeline and below snow maybe moist or wet from rain.

A layer of large surface hoar is buried 80 to 130 cm in sheltered treeline features. Below treeline, a crust is found at this interface. The mid and lower snowpack is well settled with no current layers of concern. Treeline snow depths throughout the region range from 250 cm to 450 cm.

Sunday Night
Cloudy. Generally 20 to 30 mm of precipitation as snow or rain at treeline. Immediate coastal terrain may see up to 50 mm. 70 km/h south ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature 0 °C. Freezing level 1300 m.

Monday
Cloudy. 10 to 20 mm of precipitation as snow or rain at treeline. 50-70 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature 0 °C. Freezing level 1300 m.

Tuesday
Cloudy. 30 to 35 mm of rain at treeline. 70-90 km/h south ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature 1 °C. Freezing level 1700 m.

Wednesday
Mostly cloudy. 15 to 45 mm of precipitation as snow or rain at treeline. 60 km/h southwest ridgetop wind. Treeline temperature -1 °C. Freezing level 1300 m.

More details can be found in the Mountain Weather Forecast.

• Avoid avalanche terrain during periods of heavy snowfall.
• Be aware of the potential for larger than expected storm slabs due to buried surface hoar.
• Use ridges or ribs to avoid areas of wind-loaded snow.
• Avoid exposure to overhead avalanche terrain; avalanches may run surprisingly far.