East Slopes North

A dusting of recent snow and wind won't be enough to raise the avalanche danger. You'll find variable surface conditions and areas of older wind drifted snow above treeline.  On the eastern end of the zone, shallower and weaker snow can be found. 

While avalanches are generally unlikely, you may be able to trigger small, shallow slides in the recent snow. If the sun comes out on Monday afternoon, you could see small loose avalanches on steep southerly slopes.  Recently observers have reported facets on the snow surface and widespread surface hoar below treeline. Light snow that has accumulated on top may slide easily down steep slopes. If you find signs of recently drifted snow, steer around these small features. Any avalanches on Monday will pose little risk on most slopes. Use caution in very steep, extreme terrain and around terrain traps like cliffs. Here, a small avalanche could result in injury.

The last reported avalanches on Washington Pass were small wind slabs on the 18th and 19th. In general, the snowpack near and just east of the pass is strong and relatively deep.  In the eastern part of the zone, you'll find a shallower and possibly weaker snowpack. An observer found buried weak layers in the Chelan-Sawtooth Mountains near Chelan on the 16th. If you travel in the eastern mountains, such as the Chelan-Sawtooth Mountains or the Twisp River, Eight Mile, and Chewuch drainages, take time to dig in the snow and look for older weak layers.

On Saturday, NWAC and WSDOT forecasters teamed up to work on the Washington Pass weather station. Near the top of the pass, they found facets forming on or just under the snow surface along with large, old avalanche debris in the Liberty Bell avalanche paths. On the night of January 12th, a major avalanche cycle was brought on by heavy snow and rain. Observers reported many large to very large avalanches, up to D3 in size (big enough to break mature timber and bury cars). Evidence of this avalanche cycle can still be seen in the mountains. 

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.