Avalanche forecast

West Slopes Central

Northwest Avalanche Center
View on map

Avalanche danger

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Out of date — this forecast expired 6 years ago.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

Highlights

Expect new snow and southwesterly winds to form fresh drifts in leeward terrain on Friday. Use visual clues to help identify and avoid areas of wind loaded snow on upper elevation slopes greater than 35 degrees. 

Avalanche problems

  • Wind Slabs

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

    Triggering an avalanche will be most likely on north through east aspects above 4500ft near ridge crests, in gullies, and in unsupported terrain. Up to 3-6in of new snow may fall over the next 24hrs and may not bond well initially to the old snow surface.  Avalanches could fail within new snow or on a firm crust formed Wednesday. Pay attention to changing conditions with aspect and elevation. Watch for cracking in the new snow as a sign of instability, and look for sudden changes in snow surface texture and hardness. To avoid the problem you can always choose wind-sheltered and lower-angle terrain not connected to steep open slopes above.

    (12/10/20) A skin track filled in by windblown snow. Watch for evidence like this to signal wind slabs may exist nearby as you gain elevation and transition into wind affected terrain

Avalanche Discussion

The Mountain Loop area received nearly 2in of rain between December 7-9 before precipitation transitioned to snow. Wet avalanche activity likely occurred during the rain, but with significant cooling, the snowpack should be gaining strength. Wet avalanches have likely run their course, and the attention now shifts to avalanche problems due to new snow and wind. 

Observers on Thursday in the neighboring West North Zone found widespread wet avalanche activity during the recent rain event. Frozen debris piles were visible on many slopes under the few inches of new snow.  Some wet loose avalanches entrained significant snow as they ran downslope and grew large. A handful of glide avalanches occurred as well, and several glide cracks are still visible. Even though cool temperatures have allowed the snowpack to freeze and gain strength, build in a wide margin of error and continue to avoid slopes with open glide cracks.

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.

Regions covered